Netanyahu: Even if world powers accept a deal with Iran, I will not accept it

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who has recently become more active against the nuclear agreement with Iran, accused the six world powers of having "surrendered" to Iran. According to the Associated Press, Netanyahu stated during a meeting with the Likud party in the suburbs of Jerusalem on Wednesday night, March 6, that the greatest challenge threatening Israel is "the danger of Iran arming itself with nuclear weapons, with the declared goal of destroying us." He added, "From the agreement that is being prepared, it is clear that they (the world powers) have abandoned their commitment and accepted that Iran will gradually improve its capabilities to produce the materials necessary to build a large number of nuclear weapons over the coming years." Netanyahu stated, "Even if they (the negotiating parties with Iran) reach an agreement, I am not willing to accept it." As Netanyahu's speech in the U.S. Congress approaches, criticism of this trip from the White House has increased. Susan Rice, the National Security Advisor, said in a television interview with Charlie Rose, "U.S.-Israel relations are beyond party preferences, but Mr. Netanyahu's speech in the House of Representatives will introduce some party bias into this relationship, and we must keep this relationship bipartisan." According to the Associated Press, U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry also commented on Netanyahu's reaction to the Iran talks during a congressional meeting, stating, "He may have a judgment that may not be correct here." Netanyahu's speech in the House of Representatives regarding the nuclear negotiations with Iran is at the invitation of John Boehner, the Republican representative and Speaker of the House. The U.S. government has stated that due to the upcoming elections in Israel, no government officials will meet with Netanyahu. Several Democratic representatives have expressed dissatisfaction with Netanyahu's speech and suggested he meet with them privately. In a letter to Democratic Senators Dick Durbin and Dianne Feinstein, Netanyahu wrote, "I regret that my invitation to the congressional session has been perceived by some as a partisan or political move. I assure you my only goal is to express concern about an agreement with Iran that could jeopardize my country's existence." Netanyahu also stated on Wednesday that he respects Barack Obama but emphasized that he has no choice but to go to America to lobby against the nuclear agreement with Iran. He remarked, "I respect the White House and the President of the United States, but regarding a serious issue, it is my duty to do everything for the security of Israel." Several Democratic representatives have stated they will not attend Netanyahu's speech in Congress.