Former NSC Chief Warns Israel Cannot End the War While Tehran Holds Enriched Uranium

In an interview with Kikar HaShabbat, Dr. Eyal Hulata, former head of Israel’s National Security Council (NSC), detailed the complex strategic landscape currently facing Israel in its campaign against the "Iranian Axis of Evil."

Hulata addressed the friction with the Trump administration, the critical goal of neutralizing Iran’s nuclear stockpile, and the long-term military preparations that made current operations possible.

The Trump Administration and Energy Markets

Addressing reports of tension between Jerusalem and Washington regarding Israeli strikes on Iranian gas fields, Hulata clarified that President Trump’s primary concern is stabilizing global energy markets.

"There is no doubt the Americans knew about the strike, including President Trump," Hulata noted. He explained that Trump’s rhetoric is aimed at cooling oil prices for his domestic audience. "Trump isn't being dragged into this war; he is leading. But the length of the 'green light' he gives Israel is tied to his own political considerations."

The "Urgent" Goal: Iran’s Enriched Uranium

Hulata warned that while Israel has successfully targeted missile production sites and Basij forces, a critical threat remains untouched.

"There is a stockpile of enriched uranium in Iran. Ending this war without that stockpile leaving Iran would be very problematic," Hulata stated. When asked if removing the uranium would require a complex ground operation, he remained cautious: "It is a very complex operation currently under consideration. If we don’t succeed in removing it, we may have to deal with it through an agreement with the Iranians. We cannot leave it as it is."

The 2021 Preparations: "A Matter of Flexibility"

A significant portion of the interview focused on Israel’s military readiness. Hulata, who served under former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett, argued that the massive budget allocations and strategic focus in 2021 are what allow for today's operational successes.

"Without the major investments and focus during that government’s term, it is not certain these capabilities would have been ready in time," Hulata said. "Prime Minister Netanyahu is making the decisions now, but even he knows that without the procurement made then, he wouldn't have the same flexibility to act today."

Upholding Israeli Sovereignty

Hulata concluded by touching upon potential American interference in Israel’s internal political and legal affairs.

"I don't like foreign intervention, whether from this President or another," he remarked. "I would prefer the entire political system to tell President Trump: 'Mr. President, Israel takes care of itself and conducts itself as an independent state.' It is time for Israel to return to a reality where not everything is political, and professionals are empowered to speak their truth."