A News Agency

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu delivered an extensive speech at the Second Lebanon War memorial ceremony at Mount Herzl, commemorating the soldiers and civilians who lost their lives in the war and expressing his condolences to their families.

In his remarks, Netanyahu referred to security threats along Israel's northern border, describing Hezbollah as "an Iranian-backed proxy" and alleging that the group had turned Lebanon into a military base.

Referring to Israel's military operations in recent years, Netanyahu claimed that "Hezbollah's strategic capabilities have been severely damaged," stating that thousands of targets had been neutralized and numerous missile systems destroyed.

Netanyahu also said that Israel had established a security buffer zone along its northern border, stating that "a security line has been created separating Israeli citizens from threats." He added that the zone would be maintained for as long as necessary.

In his speech, Netanyahu also left the door open to the possibility of future peace with Lebanon, saying that indirect contacts had increased recently and that the possibility of a long-term agreement remained on the agenda.

Netanyahu said, "We will continue to defend the State of Israel, and with God's help, we will ensure the eternity of Israel. We will preserve the legacy of those who fell in the Second Lebanon War, Israel's heroes, and its civilian victims. May their memory be blessed forever."