Netanyahu: Israel prevented attacks against embassies around the world
The prime minister spoke at a memorial ceremony for the 16 Foreign Ministry employees who were murdered in the course of their service; 'Threats to Israeli targets around the world still exist,' he tells bereaved families.
Netanyahu said that the power of Israel prevented many terrorist attacks around the world. "Terrorists hold a zealous view that undermines the very right of our state to exist. Threats of attacks against Israeli targets abroad still exist," said the prime minister during an annual memorial ceremony held at the Foreign Ministry's ceremony hall in Jerusalem.
Since the establishment of the State of Israel, 16 people have been murdered in its Foreign Service, including emissaries, office workers, security officers and family members.
"This is a tangible symbol of our sovereignty, which draws the ire of those who seek our destruction," Netanyahu said of Israel's Foreign Service. "Therefore, they seek to undermine it in contradiction to the norms that have existed since the ancient world, in which diplomats and ambassadors were immune from fatal attacks."
Netanyahu spoke of Israel's technological and military fortitude: "We have learned, over the years, to repel these attacks, and our security forces are investing tremendous effort in dealing with them. Our actions are saving lives. They are keeping people safe… Israel has prevented many terrorist attacks in embassies around the world, but in spite it all, we have incurred heartbreaking tragedies and this wall in front of which we gather every year is evidence of that."
The prime minister also said that the fight against terrorism is global and Israel was and always will be at the forefront of this battle. "Many countries have internalized that this epidemic will not skip them and that they have to stand shoulder to shoulder against the forces of terror … there are very few countries left with which we don't have political ties."
As for the bereaved families, Netanyahu said: "I know that for you, the families, the pain of loss is infinite, there is no end to it, and you have to live with it for the rest of your lives. We will remember the fallen and fulfill their wishes—to ensure the future, security, peace and prosperity of our beloved country."
