This specific operation concludes two intensive weeks of operational
activities that culminated tonight when the two terrorists
were apprehended in Jenin. Twelve hours after you existed Jenin
with the terrorists in your hands, it was important for me to come here,
to the unit (YAMAM), together with the Border Police Commander,
to look each and everyone of you in the eye and thank you
in my name and in the name of every Israeli citizen.
This (successful) operation last night, is the result of unprecedented
cooperation between all of the defense organizations,
police, ISA (Shin Bet) that was genuinely ― we must
salute them for their activities along the entire way,
also for their professionalism as well as their determination
and capabilities ― and here, truly, we must highlight this.
Also, the IDF, for the casing which they provided us at the beginning,
their assistance, and commanding the operation last night.
Suspicions around Ayham are known and are in common
with the other men. He is suspected to be a member
of a terrorist group and participating in escaping from the prison.
All the charges are the same for the other prisoners.
The Yom Kippur war changed our country, Israeli society,
and it of course also changed the IDF.
We learned how important it is to be prepared for any scenario ―
to that which may seem near’ fiction. We learned that laying doubt is
a crucial condition to managing our lives, not only for security-related
issues, but also for managing social crises.
We learned that we cannot but rely on ourselves,
that we must protect ourselves by our own power.
Also today, 48 years after, we do not have a more important foundation
than this: our unity and our mutual responsibility for one-another.
We learned this on Yom Kippur war and we realize this ever day anew.
When the security forces concluded the capture of the six terrorists
that escaped prison, this is merely a small yet good
example for the phenomenon which I spoke of, now.
The escape itself is a severe intelligence, operational
and organizational malfunction. But, from the moment a malfunction
occurs, first and foremost, we enlist together, together.
A first stage in facing our enemy, to rehabilitate our deterrence,
and thereafter, to fix inwardly what is required.
And the necessity to fix exists.
We must do everything to ensure that such a surprise as that of
the Yom Kippur War will not reoccur. We must not make
a mistake in conception. We must remain prepared,
always, for war ― and not miss any opportunity for peace.
We must not underrate our enemies and not err in illusions.
We are committed to ask questions always, and remain vigilant
and prepared for any scenario. One hand on the trigger,
while in tandem, the second hand hold a fig leaf reaching-out for peace.
The state of Israel acted, and acts, on these parallel tracks. Indeed,
our defensive power is undeniable. Also, during these days, He who
watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep (Psalm 121).
Israel is not interested to harm the routine of millions of Palestinians
in Judea and Samaria and even aspires to continue with steps
that will improve and strengthen their individual economy,
health and security. Also in Gaza we will enable
the 2 million citizens a basic texture of life.
In tandem, and before this, we are prepared to protect
the security of Israeli citizens. If terror organizations will try
to raise their heads on the backs of the Palestinian residents,
we will act against them with might and target
the terrorists and those who send them.
The Defense Establishment continues to operate 24hours 7days a week
in all areas of operation ― both near and far.
We are continually prepared against the significant challenges
which stand before us, in Iran, Lebanon and other fronts.