Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has stated that the conflict with Iran is “not over,” maintaining that Tehran’s enriched uranium “has to be taken out” and its nuclear sites “have to be dismantled.”
Speaking in an interview with CBS’ “60 Minutes” on Sunday, Netanyahu refused to rule out the use of military force to achieve these goals, stating simply, “You go in and you take it out.”
The Prime Minister’s comments signal a hardline approach to Iran’s nuclear capabilities and suggest that a diplomatic resolution may not be sufficient to ensure Israel’s security. This stance indicates that military intervention could remain a possible next step if nuclear materials are not removed.
Netanyahu also addressed the ongoing tensions in Lebanon, signaling that fighting with Hezbollah could persist even if a cease-fire is eventually reached with Iran. He suggested that Israel would not agree to link the two conflicts. According to Netanyahu, the weakening or potential toppling of Iran could lead to a broader regional shift, stating, “I think it’s the end of Hezbollah, it’s the end of Hamas, it’s probably the end of the Houthis.”
Beyond regional military strategy, Netanyahu revealed a plan to alter Israel’s financial relationship with the United States. He disclosed that he told President Donald Trump he wishes to gradually eliminate U.S. Military financing, with the goal of reducing the current $3.8 billion annual assistance package “to zero” over the next decade.
This proposed shift toward financial independence may suggest a long-term strategic pivot in how Israel manages its defense procurement and diplomatic ties with Washington.
Addressing the international fallout and mounting criticism regarding Israel’s operations in Gaza, Netanyahu attributed the decline of support within the United States to foreign influence campaigns and social media. While defending the overall effort, he acknowledged that errors had occurred during the conflict.
“In war, armies sometimes miss and civilians die,” Netanyahu said. “These are mistakes.”
