Netanyahu: Israel needs a strong army, and that requires money

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said at the Institute for National Security Studies conference: "I do not envision a situation in the future in which we will not need a strong army, and that requires money." Netanyahu added that: "we are developing our economy in order to achieve our main goal – a Jewish, democratic, and progressive State."

Netanyahu also rejected criticism launched against him from professional soldiers: "the standing army has been subject recently to irresponsible attacks, the IDF is the source that ensures our existence and it is fitting that our appreciation be expressed." (Gilad Morag)