In a recent interview with Euronews, Haim Regev, Israel’s ambassador to the EU and NATO, articulated Israel’s determination to navigate a complex geopolitical landscape. He described the nation’s ongoing struggle against Iran as a critical effort not only to neutralize threats to Israel but also to safeguard European nations and support humanitarian efforts in Ukraine. Regev emphasized the importance of creating a brighter future in the Middle East.
Establishing Israel’s stance on Iran and Gaza
Regev made it unequivocally clear that Israel is not open to negotiations concerning threats from Iran and Gaza. When questioned about potential diplomatic engagements with the EU regarding Iran, he stated, “We are now doing what is good for the state of Israel, removing the nuclear and missile threat and also on the other hand releasing the hostages from Gaza and eliminating the capability of Hamas to stay there.” This illustrates Israel’s commitment to its national security over diplomatic discussions.
The ambassador further highlighted that Israel’s actions against Iran stem from a necessity to eliminate direct threats. He asserted that previous diplomatic efforts, including sanctions, had failed to curb Iran’s aggressive ambitions. He clarified, “Israel took action against Iran because it did not have a choice,” underlining the gravity of the situation.
Shaping a new Middle East reality
Despite the challenging circumstances, Regev expressed optimism about the future, suggesting that current developments could offer a new opportunity for the region. He noted, “For the first time in years, there is a hope for the people of the region,” attributing this sentiment to Israel’s strategic operations affecting destabilizing forces in neighboring countries.
Discussing the broader implications of Israel’s military actions, Regev pointed out that Iran’s threats extend beyond the Middle East, directly impacting Europe. He questioned the rationale behind Iran’s missile development capabilities targeted at European cities, stating, “Why does Iran need a 4,000-kilometre missile to reach Brussels?” This underscores the ambassador’s view that a strong stance against Iran not only benefits Israel but serves European interests as well.
When asked about the potential for mediation from Russia, he dismissed such ideas, stating that Israel is not seeking third-party negotiations at this time. Regev reaffirmed Israel’s commitment to decisive military actions, indicating that any future diplomatic efforts must be rooted in a new framework, designed to ensure concrete outcomes and stringent measures against Iran.
As the situation evolves, Regev insists that while Israel does not desire a large-scale war, it is prepared to maintain pressure on Iran. He noted the importance of the international community, particularly Europe, in standing firm against Iranian aggression, indicating that a united front is crucial for regional stability.
In closing, Regev reiterated that Israel is focused on achieving its military objectives while still engaging with the EU. He expressed a clear understanding that the ongoing conflict in Gaza must not overshadow the importance of maintaining strong relations with European partners, stating, “There are still 53 hostages there, and they must be released before if we want to end this war.” The ambassador’s remarks reflect a nuanced understanding of the intertwining issues of security, diplomacy, and humanitarian concerns in a tumultuous region.