Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Thursday that bringing down Iran’s regime remains one of Israel’s central objectives, declaring that Tehran is weaker than ever and that removing the threat is “within reach.”

Netanyahu made the remarks during a pre-Rosh Hashanah gathering at the Kirya in Tel Aviv, attended by Defense Minister Israel Katz, IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir and members of the IDF General Staff Forum.

Referring to Israel’s achievements during the war, including Operation Roaring Lion and Operation Rising Lion, Netanyahu said Israel had significantly pushed back the threat posed by Iran.

“What was achieved in three years of the War of Revival, and in the time that has passed since ‘Roaring Lion,’ and even before that ‘Rising Lion’ — these are historic achievements that ensure our continued existence,” Netanyahu said. “We faced an existential danger from a regime that seeks to destroy us, that wants to arm itself with nuclear bombs to destroy us. We pushed back that threat, as well as other threats.”

Netanyahu said the Iranian regime is now in a particularly weakened position.

“This regime is currently faltering. It is weaker than ever. It is fighting for its life,” he said, adding that he has confidence in Israel’s military capabilities, its soldiers, pilots, air crews, home front and the strength of the Israeli people.

“I am convinced of our ability to remove this threat once and for all — meaning, to bring down this regime,” Netanyahu said. “That is the central mission that still lies ahead of us, but it is close. It is not impossible. It is within reach.”

Netanyahu also warned Israel’s enemies against testing the country’s resolve.

“They know our strength, the force of our arm and our determination,” Netanyahu said.

“I say to our enemies: Don’t mess with us,” he added. “If you learned anything, don’t mess with us. We have the strength, the determination and the internal unity to overcome you.”

Netanyahu concluded by wishing the people of Israel a good year.

(YWN World Headquarters – NYC)