“Israel has a clear objective: that Iran not become nuclear,” he told Egypt’s al-Ghad news channel. “It is not just an Israeli interest. It is first and foremost a global and regional interest.”“The IDF and Israel’s defense establishment are holding onto the option of taking action against Iran’s nuclear project if that is what has to be done,” he added. “I hope it doesn’t come to that.”
Gantz echoed remarks made by IDF Chief of Staff Lt.-Gen. Aviv Kochavi last week, saying a nuclear Iran would lead to a nuclear arms race throughout the Middle East.“The regime is fundamentalist and radical, and it ultimately wants to obtain nuclear capability not just to have it, but primarily for the leverage it would give them in nuclear deterrence,” he said. “I want the public in Iran to understand me: I don’t have anything against them. Iranian citizens deserve a normal life like every other human being. But the regime’s support of terrorism, of Hezbollah, of the Houthis demands action.”Responding to a question on possible civilian uses for nuclear power, Gantz said: “If you wanted to develop a nuclear capability for medical purposes, would you have to hide it underground? Would you need to deny access to inspectors? We know the Iranians are trying to develop nuclear weapons, and we will not allow that to happen.” (Read More)
