Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that he will continue to respond to Iran and Iran-aligned militant groups following the U.S.-Iran memorandum of understanding (MOU) on a ceasefire. While he avoided publicly criticizing the U.S.-led negotiations, he made it clear that preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons and maintaining a military presence in southern Lebanon are priorities.
On June 15, during a press conference at his office in Jerusalem, Netanyahu defended the achievements of U.S.-Israeli military operations against Iran. He asserted, "Eliminating the threat of Iran's nuclear and ballistic missile capabilities is a core objective of the war, and Israel has achieved this."
Netanyahu emphasized, "Whether there is an agreement or not, Iran will not be able to possess nuclear weapons for the time being. As long as I am Prime Minister of Israel, that will not happen." He highlighted Israel's actions against Iranian nuclear scientists, military leadership, nuclear facilities, and missile production sites as measures taken to thwart national threats.
However, he adopted a cautious stance regarding the MOU itself, stating, "I do not yet know the details of the agreement," and added that he would not simply compare it to the Iran nuclear deal from the Obama administration. While acknowledging that the agreement is a decision made by the U.S., he asserted, "Israel will act according to its own security interests."
Netanyahu did not directly respond to questions about the possibility of independent Israeli military action. However, he stated, "We will do what is necessary to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, and I will not limit myself in this regard."
He also reaffirmed Israel's commitment to maintaining a military presence in southern Lebanon, saying, "Israel has established a buffer and security zone in southern Lebanon, and we will remain there as long as necessary." He claimed that while Iran wanted Israeli forces to withdraw, he firmly resisted this, ensuring that withdrawal was not part of the agreement's conditions.
Netanyahu also addressed rumors of discord with U.S. President Donald Trump, stating, "I have a partnership with President Trump. In many cases, we agree, but there are times when we do not." He emphasized that while he considers the U.S. position, he is responsible for Israel's security interests.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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