As tensions continue to escalate in the Middle East, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated on Monday (October 28) that once Israel’s war against Iranian proxies Hamas and Hezbollah ends, he hopes to reach peace agreements with more Arab countries.
Netanyahu addressed the parliament, saying that plans are being made to stabilize the fronts with Hamas and Hezbollah in recent days. He mentioned that after Hamas no longer controls Gaza and Hezbollah ceases its activities on the northern border of Israel, there are other important tasks for Israel to focus on.
“I am eager to continue the process of signing the historic ‘Abraham Accords’ that I led a few years ago and achieve peace with more Arab countries,” he said.
According to the 2020 agreement mediated by the United States, Israel has normalized relations with four Arab countries, namely the UAE, Bahrain, Morocco, and Sudan.
Since then, with the support of the United States, Israel has been seeking to bring more Arab countries on board, particularly Saudi Arabia.
“These countries and others clearly see that we are striking against those who attack us – the evil axis of Iran,” Netanyahu said.
He stated that Israel will reach peace agreements with like-minded nations, “they, like us, are eager to establish a stable, secure, and prosperous Middle East.”
He explained that Israel’s strategic aim towards Iran and its proxies is clear: “Our long-term strategy is to dismantle the evil axis, cut off its arms in the south and north, make Iran and its proxies pay a heavy price, and prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons.”
The Prime Minister also mentioned that for Iran, Israel is an obstacle that can prevent it from controlling the Middle East and threatening other regions of the world. According to Iran’s mindset, “if Israel collapses, the entire Middle East will fall into their hands, but we will not collapse. We will prevail, and the world will become a better place.”
The Israeli Ministry of Defense announced on Monday that a $2 billion agreement had been signed with local contractors to expand the production of a new laser missile defense system, which may be operational next year.
The agreement with Israeli state-owned companies Rafael Advanced Defense Systems and Elbit Systems involves a high-power laser called “Iron Beam.” The weapon is designed to counter airborne threats such as rockets, mortar shells, drones, and cruise missiles.
Regarding the hostages held by Hamas in Gaza, Netanyahu reiterated on Monday his commitment to bringing all hostages home and achieving the war objectives he set at the beginning of the conflict. “Comprehensive victory is a systematic, consistent work plan that we will achieve step by step,” he insisted.
Israeli opposition leader Benny Gantz urged Netanyahu to reach an agreement with Hamas to ensure the return of the hostages to their homes, even if it means Israel has to pay a “painful” price.
At a meeting of his “National Unity party,” Gantz stated, “There is now more need than ever to work on a plan to quickly release the hostages.”
Gantz acknowledged that the fighting in Gaza would have to continue for “several years,” but he added that bringing back the hostages is crucial.