JERUSALEM — Benjamin Netanyahu has stood up to President Barack Obama’s charge that under the prime minister’s leadership, Israel “doesn’t know what its best interests are.’’
"I think everyone understands that only Israel's citizens will be the ones to determine who faithfully represents Israel's vital interests," Netanyahu said on a visit to an army base near Gaza, according to
The Jerusalem Post.
"Over the last four years we stood up against strong pressure, and I will continue to do so for Israel's security,’’ Netanyahu said.
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Netanyahu’s comments come after Bloomberg News columnist Jeffrey Goldberg quoted Obama on the Israeli leader’s governing abilities.
The Post reports that Netanyahu was told by security officials that December was the quietest month in the nation’s explosive southern region since January 2001.
"I am very impressed by the advanced technological means, and even more so by our young soldiers operating them here," he said.
He added that Israel is prepared for any scenario.
"We will do everything necessary to defend Israel's citizens here and everywhere else," Netanyahu said.
Goldberg denied accusations that his column was meant to damage Netanyahu.
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