Iran's nuclear ambitions best stopped through Hormuz blockade, ex-Mossad director Barnea

Former Mossad director David Barnea stated that an extended full-fledged blockade of Iran at the Strait of Hormuz is the best current option to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon. Speaking in New York, he cautioned that a third attack on Iran would harm the global economy and would not likely end the nuclear threat by itself. Barnea opposes any deal that does not comprehensively dismantle Iran's nuclear program, differing from Netanyahu and Trump.

Former Mossad director David Barnea stated that an extended full-fledged blockade of Iran at the Strait of Hormuz is the best current option to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon. Speaking late Wednesday night in New York, Barnea acknowledged the value of a third major attack on Iran but cautioned that such an attack would harm the global economy and would not likely end the nuclear threat by itself. He remains opposed to any deal with Iran that does not comprehensively dismantle the nuclear program, as he believes the regime would never comply. Barnea's nuanced stance differs from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who has pressed unequivocally for a third war against Iran, and US President Donald Trump, who has shown openness to a partial nuclear deal. Barnea argued that a blockade would cripple Iran's economy, making it hard for the regime to survive, and that the Iranian people are waiting to seize freedom. He also addressed Trump, saying the president paid a huge political price for doing the right thing.