'We prevented the destruction of Third Temple': Netanyahu shares message on eve of Tisha B'av

On the eve of Tisha B'av, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared that Israelis had prevented "the destruction of the Third Temple" over the last three years. He framed this period as one where the nation stood united, fighting "shoulder to shoulder" against those seeking their lives, thereby "saving Israel together."

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Instead of a civil war, we were brothers fighting shoulder to shoulder to repel those who seek our lives.

Netanyahu highlighted the perceived bravery of the Israeli people and army, describing them as "a generation of heroes" who repelled "the terror of destruction" and achieved significant accomplishments. He acknowledged that the work to defend Israel is ongoing and that challenges remain.

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We showed the world that the people of Israel are a brave people, a brave army, a generation of heroes. We repelled the terror of destruction and achieved great achievements.

Looking ahead to the upcoming elections, Netanyahu stated his commitment to uniting Israel. He aims to establish a "broad national government, a stable government" focused on security and the nation's future. Despite anticipating electoral debates that might obscure unity, he asserted that Israelis are "much more united than we seem."

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I will work to establish a broad national government, a stable government that will take care of our security and our future.

"Together, with God's help, we will ensure the eternity of Israel," Netanyahu concluded. His remarks come as his Likud Party prepares to compete against the Yashar Party and the Together Party in the forthcoming elections.

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I know that, during an election period, there will be arguments that will make it difficult for us to see this, but I also know that we are much more united than we seem.