Netanyahu: We saved the State of Israel from destruction

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held his first press conference following the agreement between Iran and the US on a memorandum of understanding.

Netanyahu argued that the military operation conducted by the US and Israel against Iran was successful, stating that they would not allow Iran to possess nuclear weapons, regardless of whether an agreement is reached between Washington and Tehran. Asserting that preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons is his "life's mission," Netanyahu said, "Whether there is an agreement or not, Iran will not have nuclear weapons today or tomorrow. As long as I am the Prime Minister of Israel, this will not happen."

Netanyahu stated that Iran's nuclear program poses a "threat" and that Israel has eliminated it "together with its American friends." Reporting that they have destroyed numerous Iranian military and nuclear facilities, Netanyahu said, "We destroyed their navy and air force. We neutralized the base commanders who were slaughtering the Iranian people. We have caused hundreds of billions of dollars, and by some estimates nearly 1 trillion dollars, in damage to the Iranian economy. We have eliminated the threat of the destruction of the Israeli population for years to come. We have saved the State of Israel from destruction."

Netanyahu said that they have established "security zones" in Gaza, Lebanon, and Syria, and that they will remain in these areas as long as necessary to protect the country's security.

"We are often in agreement, but sometimes there are differences of opinion"

Avoiding a direct answer to the question of whether the US would allow Israel to launch a unilateral attack against Iran or Lebanon, Netanyahu emphasized that he defends Israel's interests in his talks with US President Donald Trump. Netanyahu said, "We are often in agreement, but sometimes there are differences of opinion. I am responsible for Israel's security interests. I defend them."