Israeli opposition leader and head of the National Unity Party, Benny Gantz, stated that the time has come to change the Middle East in coordination with what he called "our great ally," the United States. His remarks followed a news report confirming that Israel had planned to strike Iranian nuclear sites next month, but former U.S. President Donald Trump intervened to stop the operation.
اضافة اعلان
In a post on his X (formerly Twitter) account, Gantz described the Iranian regime as "an expert in buying time and procrastination," asserting that Israel is capable of attacking Iran and has the ability to do so.
He added that Israel and the United States must rally their strength to bring about change in the Middle East.
Israeli Plan Revealed
The New York Times reported, citing officials and informed sources, that Israel was preparing to strike Iranian nuclear sites in May, but Trump prevented the move, opting instead to pursue a negotiated agreement with Tehran aimed at curbing its nuclear program.
According to the American newspaper, Israeli officials were optimistic about securing approval from the White House and had drawn up attack plans for May.
The paper also reported that Trump administration officials, including Vice President J.D. Vance, argued—supported by others—that Trump had a unique opportunity to reach a deal with Iran. Vance stated that if negotiations failed, Trump might support an Israeli military strike on Tehran.
The New York Times also quoted a well-informed source saying that U.S. intelligence chief John Ratcliffe met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Mossad Director David Barnea in Israel to discuss options for dealing with Iran, including covert operations with U.S. backing and the imposition of stricter sanctions.
IAEA Warning
Meanwhile, Rafael Grossi, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), warned against attacking Iranian nuclear facilities. After meeting Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in Tehran yesterday, Grossi stated:
“We have been very, very clear that attacks on nuclear facilities are unacceptable and only worsen the situation.”
He pointed to the potential radioactive and environmental consequences of such strikes, as well as the risk of triggering a full-scale war.
Diplomacy Not Ruled Out
Although Trump favors negotiations and is working toward an agreement with Iran on its nuclear program, he has not ruled out military action if diplomatic efforts fail.
The first round of indirect talks between Washington and Tehran was held last Saturday in Muscat, Oman, with a second round scheduled for next Saturday, where Abbas Araghchi and Steve Witkoff, the U.S. president’s envoy, are expected to meet again.
— (Agencies)
