Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has called for greater military self-reliance, saying Israel must develop its own weapons-production capabilities and reduce dependence on foreign suppliers as it continues to confront Iran and allied groups across the region.Speaking during a meeting with reserve combat officers in Gush Etzion in the occupied West Bank, Netanyahu stressed the need for Israel to strengthen its domestic defence industry despite continued support from Washington.“I greatly appreciate the support we have received – and that I have secured over the years — from our American friends. But today I say, we need our own independent weapons-production system. We must manufacture our own armaments.”Referring to the ongoing security challenges facing Israel, Netanyahu said the country’s long-term position would be determined by its military strength and ability to sustain it.“We are now confronting Iran and its proxies. We have struck them hard. It is not over yet, but it depends on our strength. Where we will be in 30 years depends on our strength. That is why what we are doing now is building even greater strength,” noting his ambition for Israel “to have an independent armaments capability”.The remarks come amid growing unease in Jerusalem over Washington’s diplomatic engagement with Tehran and concerns that future US policy decisions could affect Israel’s operational flexibility.Netanyahu reiterated that Israel must continue reducing strategic dependencies while investing in technology and military leadership.“We need to free ourselves from dependence, continue building more and more strength, incorporate more and more technology, and train more and more generations of commanders like you — because ultimately that is what will determine our position,” the Prime Minister noted.Netanyahu has long advocated a gradual reduction in Israel’s reliance on American military assistance, and his latest comments appear to reinforce that position at a time of heightened regional tensions.His remarks also follow comments made by US Vice President JD Vance last week, who said during a press conference that “two-thirds of the defensive weapons that have protected [Israel]” in recent months had been supplied and funded by the United States.According to The Times of Israel, US and Israeli officials have recently begun discussions on a new 10-year security cooperation arrangement that would gradually shift the existing aid-based framework towards a more reciprocal strategic partnership.
