JERUSALEM (VINnews)-The commander of the Israeli Air Force, Maj. Gen. Tomer Bar, visited an Iron Dome battery in northern Israel and emphasized the military’s ongoing efforts to bolster both defensive and offensive capabilities amid heightened regional tensions with Iran.

“The air force, and you in particular, are required to continue maintaining a high level of readiness. Every day, we continue to strengthen preparedness and capabilities in both defense and offense,” Bar said, according to remarks published by the Israel Defense Forces.

The visit comes as Israel faces persistent threats from Iran and its proxies, with the Iron Dome system serving as a critical component of the country’s multi-layered air defense network, primarily intercepting short-range rockets and missiles.

Bar’s comments highlight the IAF’s dual focus on robust defense — exemplified by systems like Iron Dome — and potent offensive operations capable of striking deep into enemy territory.

The IDF has frequently highlighted the air defense array’s success in intercepting thousands of threats since the onset of recent conflicts, highlighting its role in protecting the Israeli home front.