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Netanyahu says he 'lost a little weight' since Oct. 7, changed Israel’s security doctrine

From Jerusalem Post · () English

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources Context piece
  • Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that the October 7 attacks reshaped his security approach, emphasizing buffer zones in enemy territory.
  • He vowed a third strike on Iran if necessary to prevent it from obtaining nuclear weapons, asserting Israel's security interests.
  • Netanyahu also commented on relations with Turkey and avoided direct answers on Gaza settlement plans and the cost of living in Israel.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reflected on the profound impact of the October 7 attacks, stating they reshaped his security doctrine and led him to believe buffer zones should be established in enemy territory, not within Israel. "After October 7, I learned lessons," Netanyahu said, emphasizing his strong stance on national interests and expressing deep appreciation for soldiers and security services.

lost a little weight

— Benjamin NetanyahuPrime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's lighthearted response when asked about changes since the October 7 attacks.

During an interview, Netanyahu also addressed Iran's nuclear ambitions, vowing a third strike if necessary to prevent Tehran from acquiring nuclear weapons. "In Iran, we saved ourselves from atomic bombs. They will not have nuclear weapons," he asserted. His comments on Iran follow recent statements regarding Hezbollah and the ongoing presence of IDF troops in Lebanon as long as the terrorist organization poses a threat.

After October 7, I learned lessons. Buffer zones should be in enemy territory, not in ours. I stand firm on our interests. I have enormous appreciation for our soldiers, our commanders and the security services, but what happened after October 7 made me understand even more strongly that we have a state with an army, not the other way around.

— Benjamin NetanyahuPrime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu explaining how the October 7 attacks reshaped his security approach.

The Prime Minister also touched upon foreign relations, warning Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan to "calm down" and stating that Turkey's actions are a result of Iran's declining power. He dismissed concerns about past Ottoman rule, asserting that Israel will not allow threats to its security.

In Iran, we saved ourselves from atomic bombs. They will not have nuclear weapons.

— Benjamin NetanyahuPrime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's assertion regarding Iran's nuclear capabilities and Israel's stance.

Netanyahu offered a more reserved response when questioned about Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich's plan for three settlements in northern Gaza, which faces international backlash. He indicated that he does not need to "provoke the world at every moment." He also avoided a direct answer regarding the escalating cost of living in Israel, a significant concern for citizens.

calm down.

— Benjamin NetanyahuPrime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's warning to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.
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Originally published by Jerusalem Post. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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