Gantz tells graduating pilots they could be flying to attack Iran in coming years

Benny Gantz, in what is likely his last speech as defense minister, says that Israel has significantly improved its readiness to strike Iran’s nuclear facilities.

“Israel has significantly increased its preparedness in recent years and is preparing for the possibility of an attack on Iran,” Gantz says at a pilots’ graduation course at the Hatzerim Airbase in southern Israel.

In a message to the new pilots, Gantz says some of them may participate in a potential strike in Iran.

“You may cross the sky to the east in two or three years and take part in an attack on nuclear sites in Iran, for which we are preparing,” he says.

“Others of you may have to fly deep into the territory in Lebanon and Syria, or head out on missions to rescue Jews from around the world. I believe in your ability to succeed in these missions, not only because of the excellent aircraft you will fly in, but because of your morals and professionalism that connects you to them,” Gantz adds.