Netanyahu Encourages Jewish Leaders to Oppose Nuclear Agreement with Iran

The Prime Minister of Israel reiterated his belief that a potential final agreement with Iran regarding its nuclear program is a 'mistake' and urged Jewish leaders gathered in Tel Aviv to protest against it. The annual 'Jewish Agency' meeting took place in Tel Aviv on June 21, where Netanyahu addressed leaders of various Jewish communities both inside and outside the country. The Jerusalem Post quotes the Israeli Prime Minister describing Tehran as 'the most violent power in the world' and stating that as soon as Iran gains access to $150 billion in frozen assets due to sanctions, it will use that money to equip its affiliated forces. He stated, 'The number one danger that Israel and the Jewish people face is Iran acquiring nuclear weapons, and we are currently at a historical crossroads. Negotiators are discussing an agreement that endangers Israel's survival.' Tehran has consistently emphasized that the goal of its nuclear program is peaceful and that it does not intend to acquire nuclear weapons. Nevertheless, during Mahmoud Ahmadinejad's administration, following disruptions or halts in cooperation to verify this program, the international community, through the Security Council and separately in the West, imposed severe sanctions against Iran. Negotiations aimed at reaching a final agreement that would verify the identity and peaceful nature of Iran's nuclear program and find a way out of sanctions are nearing their final days. A final agreement has not yet been reached. The Israeli Prime Minister has called on Jewish community leaders not to remain silent and to express their opposition in the countries where they reside. The leader of the Israeli government is one of the most prominent and staunch critics of the ongoing negotiations with Iran regarding Tehran's nuclear program. Washington, Israel's main ally, has repeatedly emphasized that it is only seeking a good and comprehensive agreement with Iran that prevents Tehran from potentially acquiring nuclear weapons, and not just any agreement that may arise. Meanwhile, during the negotiations, the United States has proposed new plans for selling weapons to its allies, primarily Israel, which has been described as a 'clear message' to Tehran that Washington is seeking to strengthen the military power of its regional allies. The Obama administration has always emphasized that diplomacy is the best way to reach an agreement with Iran and is looking to take advantage of the opportunity that has now arisen to advance negotiations.