BRUSSELS — Israel has issued a stark warning that a ‘military option’ may be necessary to thwart Iran’s nuclear ambitions, with Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar looking to U.S. President Donald Trump for increased pressure on the Islamic Republic. Sa’ar articulated these concerns in an interview, emphasizing that time is running short as Iran has enriched sufficient uranium for the potential development of nuclear weapons.
Iran’s nuclear threat and military options
In his remarks to POLITICO, Sa’ar stated that Iran is exploring methods to weaponize its enriched uranium, an action he describes as potentially destabilizing for the entire Middle East. ‘So we don’t have much time,’ he remarked, highlighting the urgency of the situation. While Israel remains committed to pursuing diplomatic solutions, he acknowledged that the prospects for success in that arena are slim. He characterized the failure to contain Iran’s nuclear program as a looming ‘catastrophe for the security of Israel.’
“I think that in order to stop a nuclear Iranian program before it will be weaponized, a reliable military option should be on the table,”
Sa’ar’s comments come amid Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s determination to ‘finish the job’ of thwarting Iran’s nuclear plans, especially with Trump’s administration poised to support Israel. Trump has previously indicated a preference for negotiating with Iran rather than resorting to military action, though his security adviser, Mike Waltz, reaffirmed recently that ‘all options’ are under consideration, with a complete dismantling of Iran’s nuclear capabilities expected.
The broader implications and regional tensions
Sa’ar also pointed out the troubling trend of Iranian weapons being smuggled into the West Bank through Jordan, describing it as part of a broader strategy to destabilize the region. ‘We are now confronting a huge attempt by Iran via money and weapons that are floating to what you call the West Bank,’ he stated, warning of the potential for exacerbated violence in those territories.
In the diplomatic arena, Israel’s recent decision to follow the U.S. lead on a symbolic Ukraine vote at the United Nations raised eyebrows, particularly as it abstained in a resolution that would have condemned Russia. Sa’ar defended this choice as a pragmatic move to maintain relations with Washington, insisting that Israel still views Russia as the aggressor.
Despite tensions with various European nations over its military actions in Gaza, Sa’ar expressed optimism about Israel’s future relations with the EU, citing a ‘constructive’ dialogue with EU officials. He acknowledged, however, that relations with Ireland remain strained following accusations of anti-Semitism, which led to Israel closing its embassy in Dublin.
Looking ahead, Sa’ar indicated that Israel would prioritize its diplomatic efforts towards countries with more favorable ties, such as Moldova, while also cautioning against rapid normalization with Syria. He noted the precarious security situation there and the need for caution to prevent further bloodshed.
As discussions progress and tensions mount, the international community watches closely to see how Israel’s strategic decisions will unfold in the face of escalating threats from Iran.