Israeli Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu delivered a speech today directed at UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, urging the removal of UNIFIL forces from Hezbollah-controlled areas in southern Lebanon.

“We are commemorating a year since the difficult war imposed upon us—the war of survival against Iran’s evil axis, determined to destroy us. Our resolve to secure our future is stronger than ever; our commitment to vanquishing our enemies is unwavering,” Netanyahu declared.

“In Lebanon, we have taken out Nasrallah and top leaders of Hezbollah. Our brave soldiers are dismantling Hezbollah’s arsenal, command posts, and terror tunnels. They are fighting with determination to bring back safety and security for our northern residents. We are not in a conflict with the people of Lebanon but with Hezbollah, Iran’s terrorist proxy that has seized control of the country,” he emphasized.

Addressing Guterres directly, Netanyahu urged, “It is time for the UN to pull UNIFIL from Hezbollah strongholds and conflict zones. The IDF has made this request repeatedly, only to be refused, leaving UNIFIL as unintentional shields for Hezbollah’s terror activities. This refusal endangers both UNIFIL personnel and our soldiers.”

“We deeply regret any harm to UNIFIL forces and are doing everything to prevent such incidents. But the most straightforward way to ensure their safety is by removing them from harm’s way,” Netanyahu explained.

Switching to English, he appealed, “Mr. Secretary-General, evacuate the UNIFIL forces now, immediately.”

Resuming in Hebrew, Netanyahu criticized some European leaders for their misplaced pressure. “Instead of pointing fingers at Israel, they should be condemning Hezbollah for using UNIFIL as human shields, just as Hamas uses UNRWA as cover in Gaza.”

Regarding Gaza, Netanyahu said, “Our operations continue deep into enemy territory, focusing on dismantling Hamas and freeing our hostages. Our courageous soldiers are now in the heart of Jabalya, systematically taking apart Hamas’s strongholds.”

Netanyahu reiterated, “The fate of the 101 hostages in Gaza remains our top priority. We are committed to bringing them all home—both the living and those who have fallen. In Judea and Samaria, our forces are relentlessly acting on the ground and in the air to stop terrorism. It will not prevail because we will not allow it.”

Speaking on broader security matters, Netanyahu asserted, “In every theater, we will continue to act to protect Israel’s safety.”

Finally, he addressed his cabinet with a reminder: “In war, one simple rule must be followed: Speak less, act more. With G-d’s help, we will persevere and succeed.”

{Matzav.com Israel}