TEL AVIV, Israel - Speaking at the Likud party's annual Rosh Hashanah toast on Thursday, Israeli Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu began by saying, "We have proven that we desire peace and we are willing to compromise, but we will not be taken for fools."

Seven months into his administration, Netanyahu spoke confidently to his fellow Likudniks.

"One thing is clear. There is a government in Israel that bolsters security, that is leading the conomy and that is pursuing a responsible peace process while preserving Israel's crucial interests," the prime minister said.

"Unity is an important thing," Netanyahu said. "We are facing formidable challenges and we need unity to succeed. We have some vigorous Knesset members in the faction - sometimes too vigorous," he jested, "but I appreciate their contribution and everything they do for Israel."

Meanwhile, in Petah Tikva, Kadima party members gathered for their annual New Year's toast.

Party chairwoman and opposition leader Tzipi Livni promised attendees they would win the next election and "make the citizens of this country proud to be Israelis."

Earlier this week, a Panorama poll revealed that if elections were held today, Kadima would lose four mandates, while Likud would gain four.

Source: Ynet news