Netanyahu: 'Nasrallah was the core, the central engine of Iran’s axis of evil'

Former Hezbollah leader was the "central engine of Iran’s axis of evil," Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said during a televised address in Hebrew after he returned to Israel from the US on Saturday evening.

"The one who rises to kill you—rise and kill him first," Netanyahu said. "The State of Israel has eliminated the arch-terrorist Hassan Nasrallah. We have settled accounts with the man responsible for the murder of countless Israelis and many citizens of other nations, including hundreds of Americans. Nasrallah was not just another terrorist. He was the terrorist.

"He was the core, the central engine of Iran’s axis of evil. He and his people were the architects of the plan to destroy Israel. He was not only operated by Iran; many times, he operated Iran himself. That is why, at the beginning of the week, I came to the conclusion that the powerful blows the IDF dealt Hezbollah in recent days were not enough," the prime minister continued.

Achieving our goals 

"Eliminating Nasrallah was a necessary condition for achieving the goals we set: returning the residents of the North safely to their homes and changing the balance of power in the region for years to come.

As long as Nasrallah was alive, he would have quickly rebuilt the capabilities we had taken from Hezbollah. And so, I gave the order—Nasrallah is no longer with us."

Prime Minister Netanyahu expressed confidence that not only will the killing of Nasrallah advance the return of the evacuated Israelis in the North, but Hamas leader Sinwar will be more inclined to negotiate the return of hostages as Hezbollah's support wanes.

Netanyahu commended the IDF, Air Force, Military Intelligence, Mossad, and Shin Bet for their achievements over the past year while acknowledging that challenges remain ahead.

Netanyahu emphasized Israel's unity and strength, countering Hezbollah leader Nasrallah's description of Israel's agency as one covered in "spider webs."

A message to the Middle East

Netanyahu stated that not only Hezbollah, but the entire Middle East has recognized Israel's strength, offering hope to those oppressed by Iran and its proxies. He affirmed Israel's solidarity with the citizens suffering under these regimes and issued a warning to Iran, declaring that any attack on Israel would be met with a decisive response.

"Citizens of Israel, these are momentous days. We are at what seems to be a historical turning point. A year ago, on October 7, our enemies attacked us, thinking that Israel was on the path to extinction."

Netanyahu reflected on a year of continuous successes for Israel following the disaster of October 7, stating that the country's enemies now realize their hopes are fading while Israel grows stronger.

He reaffirmed Israel's commitment to defeating its enemies, restoring displaced citizens to their homes, and securing the return of all hostages. Addressing the nation, he expressed unwavering confidence that Israel shall prevail with unity and divine help.

Netanyahu arrived back in Israel earlier that day after a brief trip to the US, during which he spoke at the United Nations General Assembly in New York.