Netanyahu says they have changed the Middle East: 'Syria, Lebanon, Gaza, and Iran are no longer the same'

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu evaluated the current agenda in a televised address to the nation last night. Emphasizing that they had stated about a year ago that they would change the Middle East and that they have done so, Netanyahu said, "We will change the face of the Middle East, and we are indeed doing so. Syria is not the same Syria. Lebanon is not the same Lebanon. Gaza is not the same Gaza. And the head of the axis, Iran, is not the same Iran; it too has felt the strength of our arm."

'WE WILL DETERMINE ISRAEL'S SYRIA POLICY ACCORDING TO THE REALITY ON THE GROUND'

Underlining that they are working to "ensure security for all countries in the region today," Netanyahu said, "We will determine Israel's policy regarding Syria according to the reality on the ground. I remember that Syria has been an actively hostile state against Israel for decades. It attacked us repeatedly. It allowed others to attack us from its territory. It allowed Iran to arm Hezbollah from its territory."

Stating that he has instructed Israeli Defense Minister Katz and the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) to "prevent potential threats that may come from Syria and to prevent terrorist elements from taking control near our border," Netanyahu added, "I declare clearly to Hezbollah and Iran: We will continue to take action against you in every field and at any time as necessary to prevent you from attacking us."

'WE DISCUSSED THE NECESSITY OF COMPLETING ISRAEL'S VICTORY WITH TRUMP'

Stating that he discussed his plans with Donald Trump, Netanyahu concluded his remarks as follows:

"Last night, I discussed all of this with my friend, US President-elect Donald Trump. We had a very friendly, warm, and important conversation. We discussed the necessity of completing Israel's victory and spoke at length about our efforts to rescue our hostages."