Israeli PM urges strict terms in any Iran deal, says Gaza war could resume
Jerusalem, Feb 16
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that any potential agreement with Iran must include the removal of nuclear material, a halt to uranium enrichment and restrictions on ballistic missiles, voicing skepticism over Tehran's intentions.
Speaking at a public conference on Sunday after a recent meeting with US President Donald Trump in Washington, Netanyahu said Trump was "determined to exhaust the possibilities of achieving a deal, which he believes can be achieved now."
However, Netanyahu said he remains skeptical "about any deal with Iran."
He also said Israel is seeking to shift its relationship with Washington "from aid to partnership" and build an independent domestic defence industry, Xinhua news agency reported.
Referring to the Israeli offensive in Gaza, Netanyahu said Israel dismantled about 150 km out of 500 km of tunnels. "We have to complete the job," he said. "That means also that they (Hamas) cannot hide weapons labs or other facilities that they use to rearm themselves and regroup, which they do."
Israel is "giving a chance" to the Gaza ceasefire plan, but would renew the war if necessary to dismantle Hamas, he said.
Since the ceasefire between Hamas and Israel came into effect on October 10, 2025, Israeli forces have killed 601 Palestinians and injured 1,607 others, according to figures released by the Gaza-based health authorities on Sunday.
— IANS
Reader Comments
The human cost in Gaza is heartbreaking. 601 lives lost since the ceasefire? That's not peace, that's a pause in violence. The international community needs to push for a permanent solution that protects civilians. Our thoughts are with all innocent people caught in this.
Shifting from aid to partnership is a smart move for Israel's long-term security. Self-reliance in defence is crucial, something we in India are also striving for with 'Make in India'. Complex geopolitics, but the nuclear non-proliferation point is non-negotiable for world safety.
While I understand Israel's security concerns, the language of "giving a chance" to a ceasefire while simultaneously threatening to resume war is troubling. It creates an atmosphere of constant fear. Sustainable peace requires trust-building, not just tunnel destruction.
The focus on ballistic missiles is key. Regional powers with advanced missile tech can destabilize entire areas. From an Indian perspective living in a volatile neighbourhood, we know how critical missile defence and non-proliferation treaties are. Hope diplomacy works.
It's a never-ending cycle. Destroy tunnels, they rebuild. Fight Hamas, more radical groups emerge. The solution isn't just military. There has to be a political and economic plan for Gaza's people. The suffering has gone on for too many generations. 🙏
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.