Daijiworld Media Network - Jerusalem
Jerusalem, Aug 30: Israel has warned that it will launch fresh military strikes against Iran if Tehran attempts to rebuild its nuclear or ballistic missile programmes, even if Iran reaches a new agreement with the United States.
Israeli Energy Minister Eli Cohen issued the warning in an interview with Israeli news website Ynet on Saturday, amid continuing tensions over Iran's nuclear capabilities and missile programme.
“If Iran makes the mistake and tries to renew its nuclear programme or ballistic missile programme, even if there is an agreement with the United States, we will be there to attack,” Cohen said.
The remarks underline Israel's position that any future agreement between Washington and Tehran would not prevent it from taking unilateral military action if it believes Iran is rebuilding capabilities that pose a security threat.
The warning comes as the United States and Iran continue to face tensions over Tehran's nuclear programme, while the wider region remains affected by the ongoing conflict and diplomatic efforts to contain the escalation.
Recent reports indicate that Israel and the United States launched military strikes against Iranian targets earlier this year, triggering a wider confrontation across the region. The conflict has since continued to shape diplomatic and security calculations in West Asia.
Cohen's latest comments suggest that Israel's concerns extend beyond the terms of any possible US-Iran agreement. Jerusalem has repeatedly maintained that Iran's nuclear capabilities and ballistic missile programme represent major security threats.
The Israeli minister's statement also comes amid continuing efforts by regional and international actors to prevent further escalation. Any renewed Israeli attack on Iran could potentially trigger another round of military confrontation in the region.
Israel's warning therefore adds further uncertainty to diplomatic efforts involving Washington and Tehran, with the possibility of renewed strikes remaining a major concern if Iran is perceived to be rebuilding its nuclear or long-range missile capabilities.