(Ynet).Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered a National Security Cabinet meeting Tuesday evening, to discuss the ramifications of the tragic results of the Gaza flotilla raid.
"This was no peace sail, but a premeditated act of violence," Netanyahu told the ministers. "We have footage demonstrating exactly what our soldiers were facing, and the last thing you can say about that ship is that it was a peace sail.
"I visited soldiers at (the Chaim Sheba Medical Center at) Tel Hashomer and I heard how they faced terrorists with cold weapons – knives, clubs, tasers and axes - aboard that ship. Our soldiers acted bravely. We regret any loss of life – but we back our soldiers up fully.
The prime minister went on to explain to necessity of inspection of all maritime vessels heading to Gaza: "Operation Cast Lead taught us that weapons that find their way into Gaza are used against us."
"Yes, (Palestinians) smuggle arms through underground tunnels, but smuggling by sea mean utterly different volumes. Opening a maritime route to Gaza poses significant danger, which is why we insist on the blockade.
"We are aware of the international pressure in the respect, and that this policy is criticized, but it is imperative to Israel's security."