Israel reiterates pledge not to allow Iran obtain nuclear weapons

Israel's Defence Minister Israel Katz has reaffirmed his commitment to stopping Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon shortly after a media report emerged indicating that that US President Donald Trump had rejected Israeli proposals for joint strikes on Iranian nuclear sites.

The minister has been cited by Israeli media, recalling that he made a pledge to lead two central goals upon assuming his office, namely the prevention of Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons and winning the war, Caliber.Az reports.

He continued, stating that: “Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and I are committed, together with all parties, to leading a clear line that will prevent Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons. We will not allow threats of annihilation against the State of Israel.”

A recent article by the New York Times reported that Israel had been preparing to strike Iranian nuclear facilities as early as next month, but President Trump recently discouraged the move, opting instead to pursue a negotiated agreement with Tehran to curb its nuclear ambitions, sources familiar with the matter said. According to the publication, Trump's decision followed months of internal deliberations over whether to back diplomatic efforts or support Israeli military action to hinder Iran’s nuclear capabilities, particularly as Iran faces mounting military and economic challenges.

By Nazrin Sadigova