TEL AVIV, Israel, June 23 (ANI) — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said that Israel must reduce its dependence on U.S. military support and develop greater domestic weapons-manufacturing capability, calling it essential for long-term national security amid ongoing tensions with Iran and its regional allies.
Speaking during a meeting with reserve combat officers in Gush Etzion in the West Bank, Netanyahu said Israel should prioritize building an independent defense production system.
“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,” he said.
Addressing the broader security environment, Netanyahu said Israel is currently engaged in confrontation with Iran and its proxies, adding that the country’s future strength depends on its military self-reliance.
“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,” he said.
He added that Israel must expand its domestic defense capabilities and develop advanced military technology to ensure long-term strategic independence.
“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,” he said.
The remarks come amid heightened tensions between Washington and Jerusalem, particularly as the United States pursues diplomatic engagement with Tehran, which Israel has largely opposed.
U.S. Vice President JD Vance recently noted that two-thirds of Israel’s defensive weapons in recent months were supplied and financed by the United States.
According to The Times of Israel, both sides have also begun discussions on a new 10-year security cooperation framework aimed at gradually shifting the relationship toward a more reciprocal defense partnership.
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