Netanyahu: Iran’s nuclear program an existential threat
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that Israel’s main threat comes from Iran. He indicated that Iran poses dangers through its weapons, missiles, and nuclear program. Netanyahu emphasized that Israel cannot achieve complete victory until Iran’s nuclear program is dismantled.
In a recent speech to the Knesset, Netanyahu reported that Israeli attacks on Iran had weakened Iranian missile production and defense capabilities. However, he warned that Iran’s path to developing nuclear weapons remains open.
Ambassador Mojtaba Ferdowsipour from Iran’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs discussed Netanyahu’s statements. He described them as a psychological strategy aimed at convincing European countries like Britain, France, and Germany to maintain pressure on Iran.
Ferdowsipour asserted that Iran will respond forcefully to threats against its nuclear facilities. He highlighted Iran’s commitment to the 2015 nuclear deal, but stated that if the West continues to impose pressure, Iran will enhance its nuclear capabilities by adding new centrifuges at its facilities.
He noted that Israel’s threats to attack Iranian nuclear sites are not just political statements, but attempts to exert emotional pressure. Ferdowsipour also mentioned that past attacks on Iran’s nuclear facilities have not stopped its progress in nuclear technology.
What are Iran’s current commitments regarding its nuclear program in light of Israel’s criticisms?
Interview with Ambassador Mojtaba Ferdowsipour: Addressing Israel’s Threat Perception and Iran’s Nuclear Commitment
News Directory 3: Thank you for joining us, Ambassador Ferdowsipour. Prime Minister Netanyahu has stated that Iran poses a significant threat to Israel through its weapons, missiles, and nuclear program. How do you perceive these claims?
Ambassador Ferdowsipour: Thank you for having me. Netanyahu’s statements represent a psychological strategy aimed at generating pressure on Iran, particularly from European nations like Britain, France, and Germany. These claims often serve to rally support against Iran rather than reflect an accurate assessment of the situation.
News Directory 3: Netanyahu mentioned that Israeli attacks have weakened Iran’s missile production and defense capabilities. What is your response to that assertion?
Ambassador Ferdowsipour: While Netanyahu may claim success in diminishing our missile production, I must emphasize that Iran’s advances in nuclear technology and missile capabilities are ongoing. Historical attacks on our facilities have not halted our progress; in fact, they often bolster our resolve to enhance these capabilities.
News Directory 3: He also noted that Iran’s path to developing nuclear weapons remains open. Can you elaborate on Iran’s stance regarding its nuclear program?
Ambassador Ferdowsipour: Iran remains committed to the 2015 nuclear deal and has complied with its terms. The U.S. withdrawal in 2018 severely undermined the agreement and the assurances it provided. If foreign powers continue to apply pressure indiscriminately, we will explore the potential to enhance our nuclear capabilities, including the installation of new centrifuges.
News Directory 3: You mentioned that Israel’s threats extend beyond political rhetoric. Can you clarify how these threats are perceived by Iran?
Ambassador Ferdowsipour: Indeed, Israel’s repeated threats of military action against our nuclear sites are significant. They are not merely political bluster; they attempt to create a climate of fear and emotional pressure. While we prefer dialog as a method of resolution, we will respond forcefully to any threats targeting our sovereignty and security.
News Directory 3: In light of rising tensions, how does Iran envision resolving these disputes?
Ambassador Ferdowsipour: Iran seeks to resolve issues through dialog and negotiation. However, we firmly believe that any threats against Iran will trigger a strong reaction. Both Iran and other regional powers must recognize the importance of dialog, but unfortunately, enduring distrust and military threats hinder our ability to reach a diplomatic resolution.
News Directory 3: Thank you, Ambassador Ferdowsipour, for sharing your insights.
Ambassador Ferdowsipour: Thank you for the opportunity. I hope that our commitment to diplomacy prevails amidst these challenges.
Regarding assurances from Iran about its nuclear activities, Ferdowsipour stated that Iran complied with the 2015 nuclear agreement. He criticized the U.S. withdrawal from the deal in 2018, which he claimed undermined those guarantees. He reaffirmed Iran’s cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency.
As tensions rise between Israel and Iran, Ferdowsipour expressed that Iran seeks to resolve issues through negotiations. Nevertheless, he stressed that any threats against Iran will receive a strong response.
Both Iran and regional powers recognize that dialogue remains important for resolving these issues. However, ongoing distrust and military threats could obstruct efforts to reach a diplomatic solution.