BICOM

In interviews with Israel Radio and Army radio ahead of Israel’s Independence Day, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that Iran’s threats against Israel should not be ignored and that Israel should prepare for them. Netanyahu also said that he would be pleased if sanctions against Iran were to be successful, adding that he and US President Barack Obama were in agreement that Iran must not obtain nuclear weapons and that Israel must retain its ability to defend itself at anytime against any threat.

Regarding threats, Netanyahu highlighted the Sinai Peninsula, which he said was turning into ‘the Wild West’ as terrorist organisations, aided by Iran, were smuggling weapons there to attack Israel. Netanyahu added that he hoped that any president selected in Egypt’s upcoming elections would choose to honour the peace agreement because peace was an Egyptian interest, just as much as it is an Israeli interest.

Turning to domestic issues, Netanyahu stated that his coalition was strong and that he was not afraid of elections. Netanyahu dismissed concerns that handling of the Ulpana outpost issue would bring down the coalition. “The coalition is strong, but this situation needs to be taken care of,’ he said. ‘We are not scared of elections,’ he continued, but added that he did not expect to call elections any time soon.