From the Liveblog of
Wednesday, July 24, 2024
Netanyahu singles out fight against Iran; says US, Israel fighting together
Lazar Berman is The Times of Israel's diplomatic reporter
Iran is behind all the turmoil in the region and beyond, says Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
He recalls that Ayatollah Khomeini, the founder of the Islamic Republic, pledged to export the Islamic Revolution to the entire world.
America, “the guardian of Western civilization” and “the world’s greatest power,” stands in the way of Iran’s plan to impose radical Islam on the world.
Iran sees America as its greatest enemy, he says.
“Israel is merely a tool. The main war, the real war, is with America,” Netanyahu says, quoting Iran’s foreign minister.
Netanyahu lays out Iranian attacks against US servicemen and diplomats in Lebanon, Africa, Iraq, and the US.
Iran understands that to truly challenge America, it must first conquer the Middle East.
But “one proud, pro-American democracy” stands in the way – Israel.
“For Iran, Israel is first, America is next. When Israel fights Hamas, we’re fighting Iran. When Israel fights Hezbollah, we’re fighting Iran. When we’re fighting the Houthis, we’re fighting Iran.”
When Israel acts to prevent Iran from achieving a nuclear weapon, it’s not only protecting Israel, he tells Congress, “we’re protecting you.”
Israel’s enemies are America’s enemies, he says, and “our victory will be your victory.”
Netanyahu highlights Israel’s fight against Iran’s proxies.
Victory over Hamas is close, says Netanyahu.
Turning to Hezbollah in Lebanon he says that, diplomatically or otherwise, “Israel will do whatever it must do” to restore security to the northern border and bring 80,000 displaced Israelis back to their homes.
He describes the Yemeni Houthi drone attack last week and Israel’s strike in response. “Those who attack Israel will pay a very heavy price,” he says.
“I know that America has our back,” he says. “I thank you for it — all sides of the aisle.”
He thanks the US for “generous military assistance,” and points out the “critical intelligence” that have helped protect both countries. “We help keep American boots off the ground,” he says.
“I deeply appreciate America’s support,” he says, adding that quick US aid can bring a quick end to the war.
He cites Winston Churchill: “Give us the tools and we’ll finish the job.”
“Give us the tools faster, and we’ll finish the job faster,” he says to GOP applause.
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