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Netanyahu vows 'strong, decisive' response to potential Syria attack

26 June 2013 22:45 (UTC +04:00)

Baku-APA. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu delivered stern warnings to Syria on Wednesday, saying that attempts to violate Israel's sovereignty and harm its citizens will be met with a decisive military response, APA reports quoting Xinhua.

"We are not seeking a challenge, but no one will attack the State of Israel without a strong and decisive response," Netanyahu said while observing a brigade-level infantry and tank exercise in the occupied Golan Heights.

Describing the situation in Syria as "flammable and dynamic," Netanyahu said that war drills being held in the region were not just theoretical but intended to prepare Israel's Defense Forces ( IDF) to deal with rapidly changing events across the northern border.

Netanyahu told young troops and officers that his own experience as a soldier taught him that battle is "the kingdom of uncertainty. Regardless of how much we train, plan and prepare, it is the kingdom of uncertainty."

He also expressed hope that Israel's enemies not test its resolve. In case they do, Netanyahu said, "I am certain that we will withstand any challenge."

For his part, Israeli Defense Minister Moshe Ya'alon, who accompanied Netanyahu to Wednesday's drill, also cautioned that Israel wouldn't tolerate a violation of its sovereignty or harm inflicted on its soldiers and civilians.

"It's important to clarify to all those on the other side of the border who are planning to harm us in one way or another that we are ready and determined to act with full force," said Ya'alon in a statement.