Netanyahu said pushing major missile defense program to counter Iran

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is reportedly pushing a major missile defense project to counter a potential attack from Iran, the Kan public broadcaster reports.

The report, which came as the Security Cabinet convenes for the first time in months, says the project would be aimed in large part at improving Israel’s ability to defend against cruise missiles, which were used in an attack on Saudi oil facilities last month that has been blamed on Iran.

The broadcaster reports funding for the project, whose estimated cost is in the billions, would require cuts to civilian programs and the raising of taxes in light of the growing budget deficit.

According to Channel 12, ministers discussed a potential attack on Israel similar to that on Saudi Arabia during the cabinet meeting.