Israeli PM issues veiled warning to Iran

JERUSALEM (AP) — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issues a veiled warning to Iran, saying his country will defend itself against anyone that tries to harm it.

The premier’s remarks at a Memorial Day ceremony on Wednesday come amid rising tensions between Israel and Iran over an alleged Israeli airstrike in Syria last week that left at least four Iranian military personnel dead.

On Wednesday, Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei called for “offensive plans against the enemy,” without specifically naming Israel.

Netanyahu says Israel will stand firm against “continued incitement by our neighbors, a great many of whom refuse to come to terms with our existence,” and cautions that “anyone who raises a hand against us won’t be spared.”

The Israeli prime minister delivered the remarks hours before Israel celebrates its 70th anniversary.