Jerusalem, Jun 16 (V7N) – Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said that Israel does not yet know the detailed terms of any potential nuclear agreement being negotiated between the United States and Iran, but insisted that Tehran will never be allowed to obtain nuclear weapons.
Speaking at a press conference on Monday, Netanyahu said that regardless of whether a deal is reached, Iran must not be permitted to develop nuclear arms.
“Whether there is a deal or not, Iran will never get a nuclear weapon – not today, not tomorrow,” he said.
According to reports, Netanyahu claimed that Israel is no longer under the threat of immediate destruction and has significantly strengthened its security position. He stated that, in coordination with the United States, Israel has conducted what he described as one of the largest military operations in history, targeting Iran’s nuclear facilities, missile infrastructure and military capabilities.
The Israeli leader further claimed that the operation caused extensive economic damage to Iran, amounting to hundreds of billions of dollars and possibly approaching one trillion dollars according to some estimates.
While acknowledging differences with U.S. President Donald Trump on certain issues, Netanyahu stressed that Israel would continue to prioritize its national security interests.
He also announced that Israel would maintain a security buffer zone along the Lebanese border when necessary and continue military operations in various regions to address security threats.
Warning that regional challenges remain unresolved, Netanyahu said Israel must remain prepared to defend itself in the future. He noted that Israeli forces have carried out operations in Gaza, Lebanon, Syria and Yemen, claiming that numerous militants had been eliminated during those campaigns.
The prime minister also unveiled plans to increase Israel’s defense budget by 350 billion shekels as part of efforts to strengthen the country's military capabilities and achieve greater weapons independence.
Addressing domestic politics, Netanyahu confirmed that he intends to contest the next national election and expressed confidence in securing victory.
Meanwhile, opposition leader Gadi Eisenkot criticized Netanyahu’s remarks, accusing the prime minister of attempting to divert attention from what he described as failures to achieve key war objectives after years of conflict.
Eisenkot also warned that Iran would remain a significant threat to Israel in the future and stressed the need for continued efforts to counter Tehran’s regional activities and military ambitions.
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