'Our enemies are considering testing us during this period leading up to the elections' Netanyahu declares

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned Israel’s enemies against launching attacks ahead of the elections, saying the military was prepared for every scenario during a visit to the northern West Bank.

“We are ready for all scenarios, including any weapons being turned against us. In such a case, I do not advise our enemies to test us. You will face a power you have never imagined,” he said.

Netanyahu was accompanied by the defense minister, national security adviser and commander of the IDF Central Command. Officials from the IDF, Shin Bet and Border Police briefed him on measures to protect communities along the seam line and operations in Palestinian villages to arrest suspected terrorists, seize weapons and prevent attacks.

Speaking near Tulkarem, Netanyahu described the refugee camp there as a former “bastion of terrorism” and praised the military’s operations in the area.

He also criticized the prospect of a Supreme Court decision allowing displaced residents to return. “These are not residents, these are terrorists,” he said, without distinguishing between civilians and armed groups.

Netanyahu vowed that the IDF would retain control of the area. “There will be no Arab army west of the Jordan. There will be the IDF,” he said.

Highlighting the area’s proximity to Netanya and the Mediterranean coast, he stressed its importance to Israel’s security. “We secure our safety from the Jordan to the sea. Our country, our control,” he declared.

Netanyahu said security warnings indicated that Israel’s enemies might seek to exploit the period before the elections to launch an attack. He added that the IDF had prepared a forceful response plan, including for a scenario in which Palestinian Authority security forces turn their weapons against Israel.

He also reaffirmed his commitment to a lasting Israeli presence in the region, referring to the establishment of more than 104 communities and numerous farms.

“We will continue to ensure Israel’s security here, on the demarcation line, and everywhere else,” he said.

Netanyahu also warned that Israel’s enemies could seek to test the country ahead of the elections, saying the military had prepared plans to respond with overwhelming force.

“There are indeed warnings. Our enemies are considering testing us during this period leading up to the elections; we are prepared for any scenario, including a sudden turning of the guns,” Netanyahu said.

“I would advise our enemies not to put us to the test. You will encounter a level of force here beyond anything you have ever imagined,” he said.