Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated during a Sunday Fox News interview that the war involving Iran will conclude when the Iranian regime falls or weakens enough to abandon its nuclear program. According to Netanyahu, the regime must stop its nuclear efforts with or without a deal, noting that prior US-Israeli attacks have set the program back by a good few years. He warned that an Iranian nuclear weapon represents a mortal peril to every US citizen and that Israel will pursue all means to prevent it.
US Decision-Making and Potential Threats on Iran Strikes
Netanyahu noted that the decision on whether to renew major strikes on Iran rests in many ways with US President Donald Trump. He warned that Tehran retains the capability to rebuild sites and capabilities damaged or destroyed in previous US-Israeli operations. Furthermore, Netanyahu stated that if Iran attacks Israel directly or through proxies using ballistic missiles, UAVs, or killer drones, the response from Israel will be very forceful. He added that Israel and the US constantly share intelligence regarding the Islamic Republic, and he fully supports Trump’s ongoing efforts even if Washington chooses not to launch new major strikes.
Controversy Surrounding New York City and the ICC
Despite comments from New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani suggesting he is not welcome in the city, Netanyahu affirmed his intent to travel to New York to appear at the United Nations, noting he has done so almost every year of his premiership. Netanyahu addressed the International Criminal Court arrest warrant against him and other Israeli officials, arguing that dismissed ICC chief prosecutor Karim Khan promoted the warrant to divert attention from his own sexual harassment allegations. According to Netanyahu, Khan canceled a planned visit to Israel, called a news conference, and accused Israeli leaders of war crimes. Netanyahu accused Mayor Mamdani of sourcing information from Khan, fomenting hate, celebrating the October 7 massacre, and supporting Hamas.
Diplomatic Developments With Lebanon and Saudi Arabia
Regarding Lebanon, Netanyahu described recent developments as positive following Lebanese President Joseph Aoun’s visit to Washington. He noted that Israelis and Lebanese are speaking directly, leading to a newly signed agreement that demonstrates Hezbollah’s reduced ability to intimidate Lebanon’s government. While the Lebanese military’s capability to clear specific areas of Hezbollah terrorists remains to be seen, Netanyahu stated Israel is willing to give the agreement a try. On the US-Saudi nuclear deal, Netanyahu stated that President Trump is right to condition the agreement on Saudi Arabia joining the Abraham Accords.