Israel demands independent capability to counter Iran's nuclear ambitions

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz asserted that Israel must possess the independent capability to act against Iran to prevent it from acquiring nuclear weapons. This statement comes as the nation has historically justified military actions based on this argument.

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Israel must ensure that we also have the ability to act independently in the future.

Katz commended Israel's joint operations with the United States against Iran in recent years, including attacks in June 2025 and between February and April of the current year. However, he emphasized that "Israel must ensure that we also have the ability to act independently in the future."

In line with this directive, the Israeli Defense Minister and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have ordered the military to "prepare accordingly." This move occurs amidst reports of an impending memorandum of understanding between the United States and Iran, aimed at extending a ceasefire while peace negotiations proceed.

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The Israeli Defense Forces have been ordered to prepare accordingly.

Katz expressed hope that the U.S. President would remain firm on the principle of preventing Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons, a shared interest between the U.S. and Israel. He also advocated for the U.S. to address Iran's ballistic missile program and its support for regional militias hostile to Israel.

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while I am prime minister, Iran will not have nuclear weapons.

Netanyahu reiterated his commitment that Iran will not acquire nuclear weapons under his leadership, a stance he stated is also supported by Trump. Israel maintains it is not a party to the potential US-Iran understanding. Despite not being at the negotiating table, Israel continues military actions that counter Iranian interests, including operations in southern Lebanon and attacks within the country. Recent strikes on Beirut, which Iran considers a red line for maintaining the truce, triggered an exchange of fire between Israel and Iran.

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Israel is not part of the memorandum of understanding.