I am visiting the Navy base in Ashdod today together with the defense minister and Navy commanders. I am impressed by the strength, the people, and the capabilities.

We know that the maritime domain has effectively become an international battlefield. You see it 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, our seaports and maritime traffic. Of course, we will not allow that to happen.

I have heard from security officials that they need additional capabilities. A sixth submarine has arrived in Israel, and they want more — more vessels and other capabilities that I do not intend to detail here.

But I will tell you one thing: both above and below the surface, I intend for Israel to become one of the world leaders in this field of warfare.

We will protect the State of Israel from the sea as well.