In a recent interview with ABC News, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed the escalating tensions between Israel and Iran, emphasizing that targeting Iran's Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, could ultimately put an end to the longstanding conflict. This statement comes in the wake of reports indicating that former President Donald Trump had rejected an Israeli proposal to assassinate Khamenei, fearing it would exacerbate the situation.
When questioned by ABC News Chief Washington Correspondent Jonathan Karl, Netanyahu confidently asserted, "It's not going to escalate the conflict, it's going to end the conflict." He elaborated on the Iranian regime's role in perpetuating instability in the Middle East, highlighting a history of terrorism and aggression, including the bombings of key oil facilities in Saudi Arabia. Netanyahu stated, "The 'forever war' is what Iran wants, and they're bringing us to the brink of nuclear war." He stressed that Israel's actions are aimed at preventing this outcome and confronting what he termed "the forces of evil."
When asked about the possibility of targeting Khamenei, Netanyahu refrained from discussing specific military plans but confirmed that Israel had already taken decisive action against Iran's nuclear scientists, describing them as "Hitler's nuclear team." He insisted that it is in America's interest to support Israel's efforts to dismantle Iran's nuclear capabilities. "Today, it's Tel Aviv. Tomorrow, it's New York," he warned, calling for a united front against Iranian hostility. He added, "I don't understand 'America Dead.' That's what these people want. They chant 'Death to America.'"
Netanyahu also dismissed a report from the Wall Street Journal suggesting that Iran was signaling a desire to de-escalate tensions and return to negotiations over its nuclear program. "I'm not surprised. They want to continue to have these fake talks in which they lie, they cheat, they string the U.S. along," he remarked, emphasizing Israel's intelligence on Iran's intentions to continue developing nuclear weapons and ballistic missiles that threaten Israeli citizens.
Responding to criticisms from some Republican commentators, including Tucker Carlson, who have opposed American military support for Israel, Netanyahu reiterated that Iran poses a threat not only to Israel but to the entire world. "We're not just fighting our enemy. We're fighting your enemy," he stated, pointing out the chants of "death to Israel, death to America" as a clear indication of Iran's intentions. He urged that the threat posed by Iran should not be underestimated, saying, "It's a threat to Israel; to our Arab neighbors; to Europe; to America."
Netanyahu expressed appreciation for the support Israel receives from the United States, framing it as crucial in the fight against a shared adversary. "We're taking the action. America is supporting us in defense," he stated. However, he also highlighted the broader implications of the conflict, insisting that the American public must recognize the necessity of standing against evil.
In related news, the U.S. State Department issued an updated travel advisory on Monday, classifying all of Israel and the West Bank as Level 4: Do Not Travel, marking its highest advisory level due to the ongoing tensions. This advisory reflects the heightened risks associated with travel to these regions amid the escalating conflict.
