Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has again said that Israel will not compromise on preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons or maintaining military pressure on its proxy Hezbollah. US-Iran talks held today in Switzerland have raised concerns in Jerusalem that it could limit Israel’s freedom of action.
“On Iran: No matter what diplomatic developments happen, I will not let Iran acquire nuclear weapons. As long as I am Israel’s prime minister, that will not happen,” the prime minister said in Hebrew at an event marking the 50th anniversary of his brother Yoni Netanyahu’s death. Yoni Netanyahu was killed while leading a special IDF force during the Entebbe hostage rescue operation.
He said, “Yoni, since your martyrdom I have dedicated my life to this holy mission.” He pledged that Israel “will stand firm in defense of our vital national interests.”
He reiterated that he launched Israel’s operations against Iran last year “to eliminate the immediate threat of destruction posed by Iran’s evil regime.” He added, “If we had not taken action, they would already have nuclear bombs and would have used them.”
He said, “We have made huge achievements and we will not abandon them. We will remain in the security zone of southern Lebanon as long as necessary to protect the precious residents of the north and all citizens of Israel. As Prime Minister of Israel, I emphasize this clearly and nothing can change that.”
There was no discussion on Iran’s nuclear program
According to reports on Iran’s state television, the US-Iran talks being brokered by Pakistan and Qatar in Switzerland have been put on hold for some time. Besides, it has also been said that there was no discussion on Iran’s nuclear program during this period.
The state broadcaster says “there was no discussion about Iran’s nuclear program during the first round of talks that lasted 80 minutes.” The broadcaster further said that the main focus of the conversation was on the implementation of the agreement (Memorandum of Understanding) between Tehran and Washington and the situation in Lebanon.