Jerusalem: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Monday, October 29 that his country is fully determined to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. Speaking at the winter session of the Knesset (Israeli parliament), Netanyahu said, ‘Stopping the Iranian nuclear program is at the forefront of our minds. I cannot share with you all our plans and work in this regard. Netanyahu also said that Israel‘s long-term strategy includes preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. Netanyahu said, ‘Our long-term strategy includes eliminating the axis of evil, cutting off its hands in the South and North, extracting a heavy price from Iran and its allies. And to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. I hope this will be achieved in the near future. He said Iran was trying to develop a ‘stockpile’ of nuclear bombs with the aim of destroying Israel.
Didn’t give up-Netanyahu
The Israeli Prime Minister said, ‘I have not given up and we will not back down from achieving this central goal.’ Netanyahu was under pressure to attack Iran’s nuclear facilities. Many leaders had called the Israeli attack not targeting Iran’s nuclear facilities a weak step and called it a missed opportunity. Netanyahu’s critics have accused him of bowing to US pressure and not taking into account Israel’s strategic needs.
Our hands will reach every danger
Netanyahu said, ‘We maintain constant dialogue with our American friends, but we take important decisions related to our security in accordance with our own interests and views. It also includes the selection of goals and objectives. Describing the attack on Iran as successful, he said, ‘We have proved this and this is not the first time that our long hand will reach wherever there is a threat to Israel.’
Interview with Dr. Miriam Cohen, Middle East Security Expert
Time.news Editor: Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Cohen. Recently, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made a strong statement regarding Iran’s nuclear ambitions during the Knesset session. What are your thoughts on his remarks about preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons?
Dr. Miriam Cohen: Thank you for having me. Netanyahu’s commitment to preventing Iran from developing nuclear weapons is very significant. The Prime Minister’s assertion that stopping Iran’s nuclear program is a top priority indicates the urgency that Israel feels regarding its national security. This is not merely rhetoric; it reflects the ongoing tension between Iran and Israel and the broader implications for regional security.
Time.news Editor: He mentioned a long-term strategy, including “eliminating the axis of evil” and “extracting a heavy price from Iran and its allies.” What does this strategy entail, in practical terms?
Dr. Miriam Cohen: Netanyahu’s remarks about eliminating the “axis of evil” suggest a multi-faceted approach involving military, political, and economic strategies. This could include targeted airstrikes on military facilities, international diplomatic efforts to isolate Iran, and working to undermine Iranian influence in countries where it has a foothold, such as Syria and Lebanon. The comprehensive nature of this strategy shows Israel’s desire to not only address immediate threats but to also reshape the regional balance of power.
Time.news Editor: Netanyahu also mentioned that Israel will make important decisions regarding security based on its own interests, despite maintaining a dialogue with the U.S. How does this reflect on U.S.-Israel relations moving forward?
Dr. Miriam Cohen: This highlights a critical juncture in U.S.-Israel relations. While cooperation remains strong, there is a clear message that Israel intends to prioritize its security interests. Netanyahu’s insistence on autonomy suggests that while Israel values American support, it will not shy away from taking unilateral action if it perceives a threat. This could lead to more contentious discussions between the two allies about best approaches to handle Iran and other regional issues.
Time.news Editor: Given the criticism Netanyahu has faced for not targeting Iran’s nuclear facilities directly, do you think there will be an escalation in military action from Israel against Iran?
Dr. Miriam Cohen: There is certainly mounting pressure on Netanyahu to take decisive action, as many in Israel view a failure to act as a missed opportunity to weaken Iran’s capabilities. However, escalation carries risks of broader conflict and regional instability. Netanyahu’s past actions suggest a calculated approach, where he may opt for covert operations or cyber-attacks rather than overt military strikes to limit repercussions while still achieving his goals.
Time.news Editor: In a statement, he said, “Our hands will reach every danger.” What does this imply in terms of Israel’s military capabilities and strategy?
Dr. Miriam Cohen: This phrase encapsulates Israel’s commitment to pre-emptive defense. Israel has developed sophisticated military capabilities, including missile defense systems and advanced air force technology, enabling it to strike targets far beyond its borders. This capability allows Israel to operate with a deterrence mindset. The implication here is twofold: Israel will respond actively to threats, and it has the means to reach those threats before they can impact its security.
Time.news Editor: What practical advice would you give to policymakers who are navigating this complex geopolitical landscape?
Dr. Miriam Cohen: Policymakers should focus on fostering diplomatic channels alongside military readiness. Engaging with both allies and adversaries can create opportunities for dialogue that may de-escalate tensions. Additionally, understanding the socio-political dynamics within Iran and its proxies is essential for crafting effective strategies. Lastly, addressing the broader regional issues – such as the Palestinian conflict – could alleviate some of the pressures and provide a more stable environment for peace.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Dr. Cohen, for sharing your insights on this critical topic. It’s clear that the situation remains complex and urgent as Israel navigates its security needs against the backdrop of Iranian nuclear ambitions.
Dr. Miriam Cohen: Absolutely. Thank you for the conversation. It’s vital that we keep discussing these issues as they evolve.