Netanyahu to UN Leader: We Are Preserving the Status Quo on Har Habayis

Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu continues to announce to the international community that Israel remains determined to maintaining the religious status quo on Har Habayis, rejecting allegations from Jordan and PA Chairman Abu Mazen, as both point an accusing finger at Israel regarding the safety of al-Aqsa Mosque.

PM Netanyahu on Thursday evening 4 Tishrei spoke with UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon and told him that Israel is acting against the violence on Har Habayis, adding Israel is strictly maintaining the status quo, Arab incitement to the contrary notwithstanding.

Mr. Netanyahu on Thursday also held New Year toasts with Defense Minister Moshe Ya’alon and members of the IDF General Staff, the ISA (Israel Security Agency – Shin Bet) and Israel’s Cyber Bureau. The prime minister used the event to release statements to the media regarding threats facing Israel today.

PM Netanyahu told ISA officials “We are facing a changing world and extremist Islam is shaking old conventions. The ground around us is burning and we are experiencing historic shocks. This year, the ISA provided valuable and strategic intelligence for decision-makers in addition to its uncompromising handling of manifestations of extremism and noxious weeds in Israeli society.” The Prime Minister thanked the ISA employees and managers for their exceptional, quiet and undercover work and wished them, “Success in the missions and challenges that await us all.”

At the meeting with the IDF General Staff forum PM Netanyahu said “I would like to express appreciation for the IDF which safeguards our very existence. Without the IDF there would not be a State of Israel and with the IDF we have a strong State of Israel. We will strengthen the IDF; we will strengthen the state. I wish all Israeli citizens, but especially the commanders and soldiers of the IDF, a good year.”

At the Cyber Bureau event PM Netanyahu noted the great importance of the cyber sphere and its power in a changing world. He added that the State of Israel views the continued development and strengthening of its cyber abilities as an important component of its economy and security.