Barak: We are strong and prepared
Photo: Gil Yohanan
Barak: Our existence cannot be doubted
Defense minister speaks at Independence Day event, says Israel must complete Iron Dome to defend against threats 'near and far'
Defense Minister Ehud Barak said Wednesday that one of Israel's most important upcoming missions will be to improve defense systems including the anti-rocket Iron Dome and the advanced anti-missile Arrow defense system "in order to properly respond threats near and far".
Speaking at a Defense Ministry reception in honor of Israel's 61st Independence Day Barak added, "The State of Israel is strong, secure, and prepared. We will allow no one to shed doubt on our existence. We are capable of defending ourselves in any situation and we will do so. We will not allow our enemies to dare."
Barak also spoke regarding Israel's achievements in Gaza. "The south was at the focus of the IDF and security system's activities. For eight years Hamas has been trying to turn the southern communities into a warfront, and to make residents' lives intolerable," he said.
"We embarked on Operation Cast Lead in order to bring a new reality to the south and here, in the space of a few months, we can safely say that it was an impressive operation led by a professional and moral army. Hamas received a deadly blow," the defense minister added.
"Only one sacred commitment remains: To bring Gilad Shalit home. We, his commanders, are responsible and must make the required effort to bring Gilad home to his family and friends."
He concluded by wishing the residents of the south and the Gaza vicinity a happy Independence Day.
