Netanyahu threatens Iran while unveiling new anti-missile system

Israel sent a "clear message" to Iran on Sunday after launching its new medium-range missile defence system in a widely-publicised ceremony.

The new "David's Sling" Weapon System was unveiled by Israel's Prime Minister, Benyamin Netanyahu, with open threats to Israel's enemies.

"I will reiterate, that whoever wants to strike us will be beaten, and those who threaten our existence are putting their own lives at risk," said Netanyahu.

Senior Israeli defense officials told Israel's Haaretz newspaper that "David's Sling" can also intercept drones, cruise missiles and other anti-aircraft missiles.

Israel used its anti-missile technology for the first time in March, after a Syrian anti-aircraft missile crossed over into Israeli airspace.

The Israeli defence minister reacted to the missile strike in strong terms, threatening to "destroy" Syria's air-defence system - supplied and maintained by Moscow.

"The next time the Syrians use their air defense systems against our airplanes, we will destroy all of them without thinking twice," Avigdor Lieberman said.

Israel is the largest producer of weaponry in the Middle East, according to a recent report.

Weapons export figures grew by $800 million in 2016 to a total of $6.5 billion, according to official statistics produced by the Defence Ministry.