Daijiworld Media Network - Jerusalem
Jerusalem, May 25: Israel’s military leadership has declared its readiness to resume large-scale combat operations against Iran if required, even as diplomatic discussions between Tehran and Washington continue to show signs of progress.
Chief of the General Staff Eyal Zamir made the statement during a security assessment meeting held at the Israeli military’s Northern Command on Sunday. According to an official military statement, Zamir said Israeli forces are fully prepared to immediately intensify military operations and further weaken Iran’s strategic capabilities if the situation demands.
He stressed that the military would continue to maintain high operational readiness and flexibility for as long as necessary amid evolving regional developments.
The remarks came against the backdrop of ongoing negotiations between the United States and Iran aimed at extending a ceasefire arrangement and reopening the strategically important Strait of Hormuz. While both sides reportedly made progress during the talks, differences remain over Iran’s nuclear programme.
Amid these developments, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s security cabinet was expected to meet on Sunday evening to review the regional situation and discuss Israel’s security strategy.
Zamir also highlighted that Israeli forces are continuing military operations against Hezbollah targets in Lebanon. Despite a ceasefire announced between Israel and Lebanon in April, Israeli forces have maintained their presence in southern Lebanon and continue carrying out regular strikes, claiming they are targeting Hezbollah infrastructure and operatives.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu revealed that he held discussions with US President Donald Trump regarding the future of Iran’s nuclear programme and regional security arrangements.
In a statement shared on social media platform X, Netanyahu said the two leaders discussed efforts related to reopening the Strait of Hormuz and the broader negotiations surrounding a final agreement with Iran.
The Israeli Prime Minister praised Trump for his continued support toward Israel’s security interests, particularly during recent military operations referred to as Operation Roaring Lion and Epic Fury, where Israeli and American forces reportedly coordinated against Iranian threats.
Netanyahu stated that both leaders agreed any future agreement with Iran must completely eliminate the nuclear threat posed by Tehran. According to him, this would require dismantling Iran’s nuclear enrichment facilities and removing enriched nuclear material from Iranian territory as part of a final settlement.
The latest developments underline continuing tensions in the region despite diplomatic efforts, with Israel maintaining a firm stance on preventing Iran from advancing its nuclear capabilities.