Israel Ready to Strike — Minister's Harsh Statement on Iran
Minister Eli Cohen said Israel is ready to strike Iran even if Tehran and Washington reach an agreement, and will not rely on deals. He stressed that military measures will follow if Iran resumes its nuclear program or missile potential. Cohen also called Hamas's full disarmament a key condition for progress in Gaza, accusing the group of trying to buy time. On the northern border, Israel will not hold back in response to Hezbollah's actions, creating security zones in Lebanon, Syria, and Gaza.
Minister Eli Cohen, a member of Israel's security cabinet, said in an interview with Kol Berama radio that the country is ready to strike Iran even if an agreement is reached between Tehran and Washington. He stressed that Israel must ensure its own security and cannot rely solely on agreements between Iran and the US. According to him, if Iran resumes its nuclear program or rebuilds its ballistic missile capability, Israel will take military measures. Cohen also addressed economic pressure on Iran and its internal situation, noting that it creates difficulties for the leadership, but Israel does not count on Tehran's internal problems and prepares for any development. Responding to a question about negotiations on the future of the Gaza Strip, the minister said that the key condition for any progress is the complete disarmament of Hamas. According to him, ministers and security forces assess that Hamas is trying to buy time and create the appearance of a partial handover of weapons. "The concern is that the terrorist organization will use this time to strengthen again," he noted, adding that Israel will not agree to such a scenario and will insist on the complete disarmament of Hamas. Cohen also commented on tensions on the northern border and incidents with Hezbollah, saying that the political leadership has instructed not to hold back in response to attempts to harm Israel. The minister explained that Israel's policy aims to create a security zone on enemy territory—in Lebanon, Syria, and the Gaza Strip—to push back threats and protect residents of safe communities. In the political part of the interview, Cohen touched on preparations for elections and the emergence of new parties, saying he rejects attempts to present alternatives to the current course.