Tel aviv: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that the conflict with Iran remains unresolved due to Tehran's possession of enriched uranium, which he insists must be eliminated. In an interview with CBS News aired on Sunday, Netanyahu emphasized that while significant progress has been made, the presence of nuclear material in Iran means the situation is far from resolved.
According to Anadolu Agency, Netanyahu avoided discussing whether the removal of uranium would involve military action. He declined to disclose any military strategies or plans, underscoring the sensitive nature of the matter. Netanyahu highlighted that the US-Israeli campaign against Iran aims to dismantle its nuclear infrastructure and prevent the reestablishment of its missile and proxy networks. Despite significant degradation of Iran's capabilities, he noted that complete elimination has not been achieved.
Netanyahu suggested that an agreement would necessitate the removal of Iran's enriched uranium stockpile, yet he refrained from elaborating on potential military interventions. He referenced a conversation with former US President Donald Trump, indicating that military involvement was a possibility, although he did not provide a specific timeline.
On the diplomatic front, Israeli media reported that Trump assured Netanyahu of his unwavering stance on Iran's uranium stockpile, with Tel Aviv eagerly awaiting Washington's next steps. Meanwhile, Iran's state-run IRNA news agency revealed that Tehran had sent a counterproposal to the latest US peace plan via Pakistani mediators. Iran's response demands compensation from the US, asserts its sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz, and calls for the lifting of sanctions and the release of frozen assets.
Regional tensions have escalated following US and Israeli strikes on Iran on February 28, prompting retaliatory measures from Tehran and leading to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. Although a ceasefire was brokered on April 8 through Pakistani mediation, talks in Islamabad failed to secure a lasting agreement. Trump extended the truce without a deadline, allowing diplomatic negotiations to continue.
In a related issue, Netanyahu expressed his intention to phase out US military aid to Israel. Citing the annual $3.8 billion received from the US, he proposed transitioning from aid to partnership over the next decade, highlighting Israel's robust economy and significant advancements in energy, AI, and quantum technology. Netanyahu also voiced concerns about China's support for Iran's missile manufacturing, stressing the need to eliminate threats to Israeli communities.
Additionally, Netanyahu addressed the diminishing support for Israel within the US, attributing it to the manipulation of social media by several countries, which he claims has adversely impacted Israel's image.