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Netanyahu Calls for Naval Expansion at Ashdod Base
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Netanyahu Calls for Naval Expansion at Ashdod Base
On October 4, 2026, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visited Israel’s navy base in Ashdod with Defense Minister Israel Katz. The tour included briefings from the navy chief-of-staff and the base commander on current operations in the southern sector and a display of defensive and offensive maritime weaponry. Netanyahu said Israel must prepare for “an international battlefield” at sea and pledged to boost the navy’s capabilities.
Maritime Threat Landscape
Netanyahu highlighted recent disruptions in two key chokepoints: the Strait of Hormuz, where Iranian activity has intensified, and the Bab al-Mandab strait, where Houthi forces have threatened shipping. He warned that adversaries aim to jeopardize Israel’s Mediterranean ports and maritime traffic, framing the broader region as increasingly hostile to Israeli sea lines.
Official Statements & Plans
In his remarks, Netanyahu asserted that the security establishment has identified a need for additional equipment. He noted the arrival of a sixth submarine and indicated that further vessels and capabilities are under consideration, though he declined to detail them. The prime minister emphasized a strategic goal: to position Israel among the world’s leading powers in both surface and under-sea warfare and to safeguard the nation from maritime threats.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I am deeply impressed by the power, the people, and the equipment,” — Benjamin Netanyahu, prime minister
- “You see this in the Strait of Hormuz, you see it of course in Bab al-Mandab, and our enemies want to threaten our maritime space in the Mediterranean as well as our seaports and maritime traffic. Naturally, we will not let that happen,” — Benjamin Netanyahu, prime minister
- “A sixth submarine has arrived in the country, and they want more; more vessels, and other means that I do not intend to detail here,” — Benjamin Netanyahu, prime minister
- “But I will tell you one thing: In this field as well, both above and below the water, I intend for Israel to be one of the leading countries in the world in this type of warfare. We will also protect the State of Israel from the sea.” — Benjamin Netanyahu, prime minister
Outlook
The visit coincided with a scheduled Security Cabinet meeting to discuss the Houthi threat and recent developments in the Bab al-Mandab Strait. The cabinet’s deliberations are expected to shape forthcoming procurement and operational decisions for the Israeli navy.