No Strings Attached: Israel Rejects Any U.S.-Iran Nuclear Deal That Limits Action

Energy and Infrastructure Minister Eli Cohen, a key member of Israel's security cabinet, has stated that the country will act forcefully against Iran regardless of any agreements signed with the United States. In a recent interview, Cohen emphasized that Israel’s primary commitment is to its own security and that the government will not allow Tehran to renew its nuclear or ballistic missile programs under the cover of a diplomatic deal.

Cohen highlighted the unprecedented partnership between Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and President Donald Trump, noting that they are united in striking what he called the "Nazi tyrant of our time." He detailed the extensive damage already inflicted on Iran, including the destruction of its defense industries, critical damage to nuclear sites, and the elimination of key military leadership and scientists.

Regarding the ballistic missile threat, Cohen claimed a major achievement in the war has been the crippling of Iran’s manufacturing capabilities. "We prevented them from being able to manufacture hundreds of ballistic missiles each year," he said, warning that if Iran attempts to rebuild these programs, "we will be there" to stop them with or without an international agreement.

Turning to the northern front, Cohen dismissed current reports of a ceasefire in Lebanon as "fake." He clarified that the IDF has not retreated from the 7 to 8-kilometer zone it controls inside southern Lebanon and continues to actively flatten villages to prevent terrorist infiltrations and anti-tank missile threats. He suggested that a large-scale war in Lebanon is likely inevitable unless Hezbollah is disarmed.

The Minister also addressed the new Syrian government, suggesting that it is too early to consider any formal arrangements. Regarding European sanctions on right-wing organizations and activists in Israel, Cohen was defiant, stating that "bending the knee does not exist in our lexicon." He argued that Israel’s technological and military power provides enough leverage to resist international pressure.

Cohen concluded by reinforcing that Israel is stronger than it was a year ago and remains fully prepared to take independent military action. He stated that anyone seeking to destroy the State of Israel will face total neutralization of their capabilities, regardless of the diplomatic environment or the actions of global powers.