Netanyahu tours 'impressive' navy ahead of summit with Pence, Pompeo

Feb. 12 (UPI) -- Israeli leader Benjamin Netanyahu toured the nation's naval facilities Tuesday, saying he's quite impressed with the branch's capabilities.

Speaking at the Haifa navy base, the prime minister said the facilities are important components that allow the Israeli military to guard against threats.

"I am very impressed by the navy's aggressiveness, in building the force and using it," he said. "The navy is a primary component in Israel's defensive and deterrent capabilities regarding the supreme missions that we have in both of these areas."

His visit follows renewed threats against Israel from Iran. On Monday, Tehran celebrated 40 years since the Islamic revolution -- and said it would demolish Israeli cities if Iran is attacked by the United States or Israel. Several Iranians burned U.S. flags in protest.

"If this regime makes the terrible mistake and tries to destroy Tel Aviv and Haifa, it will not succeed, but it will be the last anniversary of the revolution that they will celebrate," Netanyahu added. "They should take this into account."

Netanyahu spoke in Haifa before leaving for a summit in Warsaw, Poland, for a conference on Mideast peace. The conference will include U.S. officials. Netanyahu will meet with U.S. Vice President Mike Pence and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo at the summit.