Israel Minister Says US 'Naive' on Iran Nuclear Deal, Suggests Possible Solo Action
Israel's National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has criticised the United States' approach to Iran's nuclear programme, suggesting that Israel may take independent action against Tehran. In an interview with Israel's Channel 7, Ben-Gvir described the American stance as 'very naive' for believing that Iran would abandon its nuclear ambitions.
'The Americans are very naive if they think the Iranians will abandon their nuclear program and cancel it, and give up their dreams of destroying Israel,' Ben-Gvir said. He added that 'it is Israel's responsibility to confront this Iranian threat and act against it alone.'
The remarks come amid ongoing international negotiations to revive the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), which aimed to limit Iran's nuclear activities in exchange for sanctions relief. The United States has been pushing for a diplomatic solution, while Israel has consistently opposed the deal, arguing it does not adequately address Iran's missile programme or regional activities.
Ben-Gvir's comments highlight a divergence in strategy between the two allies. The Israeli government has long maintained that it reserves the right to take military action to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons. Iran insists its nuclear programme is for peaceful purposes.
No immediate response was issued from Washington. The United States has not publicly commented on the minister's statements. The development adds to existing tensions in the region, where Iran's nuclear programme remains a key point of contention.