Netanyahu: World supports us when we’re strong

In comments in the Knesset, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu hails visiting Czech President Milos Zeman for pledging to move his country’s embassy to Jerusalem, and lauds Chadian President Idriss Deby who on Sunday told Israeli leaders in Jerusalem that he wishes to restore diplomatic relations.

The premier adds that Deby has invited him to visit Chad and that he had “happily” accepted the invitation.

“We are opening up the world,” Netanyahu says. “Israel is enjoying unprecedented diplomatic flourishing, including in the Arab world … and the Muslim world.”

Netanyahu says previous Israeli leaders attempted to strengthen Israel’s international standing with “dangerous concessions, including uprooting communities,” referring to settlements in the West Bank and Gaza Strip.

“That hasn’t and isn’t happening with me,” Netanyahu continues. “The exact opposite is happening. We are getting the world’s support, including from many in the Arab world, because of our determination and strength.”

He adds: “We believe in peace from strength, we believe in alliances born out of Israel’s value as a technological, financial, defense and intelligence powerhouse. That’s what we will continue doing and that’s also how we’ll achieve peace.”

— Michael Bachner