Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu delivered a blunt warning to Iran during a Knesset address on Monday, promising a response of unmatched force
if Tehran dares strike. "If it makes a mistake and attacks us, we will act with a force it has not yet known," he declared, according to Xinhua reports. Israel closely tracks Tehran's moves as the US shifts the nuclear-powered USS Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group toward the Middle East. Netanyahu hinted at regime change, stating no one can predict Iran's future but it won't resemble the past. The remarks come amid nationwide Iranian protests and US threats of intervention short of full war. Netanyahu also tackled post-war Gaza governance, pushing back against a US proposal for a Trump-chaired "Board of Peace" that names Turkey and Qatar. "We have a certain disagreement with our friends in the United States over the composition of the advisory board that will accompany the processes in Gaza," he told lawmakers. Israel bars Turkish or Qatari soldiers from the enclave despite their mediation between Jerusalem and Hamas. Ankara and Doha have hosted talks, but Jerusalem views both as Hamas backers. The prime minister outlined Israel's vision: Hamas must disarm completely under Trump administration pressure. He proposed a Gaza Executive Board focused on reconstruction, excluding adversarial states. Turkish President Erdogan faces sharp rebuke for Gaza ambitions, while Qatar's funding role draws quiet Israeli tolerance tied to hostage deals. Netanyahu stressed US friendship endures despite policy gaps.
Carrier Movement Signals Readiness
The USS Abraham Lincoln's redeployment underscores Washington's alert status near Iran. Satellite imagery shows the carrier pivoting from routine patrols, carrying F-35C jets capable of deep strikes. Pentagon sources confirm coordination with Israel amid Khamenei's external blame for protests. Netanyahu's words echo prior vows to eliminate nuclear threats from Tehran. Analysts see the rhetoric as deterrence against IRGC adventurism.
Iran halted 800 executions after Trump's Truth Social pressure, earning a nod from the Israeli leader. Jerusalem welcomes US options on the table, from sanctions to targeted hits. Regional allies like Saudi Arabia urged restraint, fearing oil chaos. Netanyahu balances hawkish tone with diplomatic nods to Trump's "friendship."
Gaza Board Proposal Faces Hurdles
Trump's Gaza plan envisions a multinational board overseeing aid and security, but Israel demands veto power over members. Turkey's Erdogan pitched troops for Gaza stability, drawing Netanyahu's firm no. Qatar quietly funds reconstruction but stays out of operations. Hamas disarmament remains non-negotiable for Jerusalem.
US-Israel alignment holds firm despite the rift. Netanyahu praised Trump's war-ending record while outlining demilitarization steps. Knesset members applauded the Iran warning, reflecting broad consensus. As carrier groups position, Tehran's next move draws global watch.
