India Knows The Consequences Of Having A Nuclear Rival, Israel Would Have Faced The Same Situation With Iran: Israeli Ambassador

New Delhi: Israeli Ambassador to India, Reuven Azar, stated that India understands the consequences of having a nuclear rival, and Israel would face a similar situation if Iran succeeds in developing a nuclear warhead.

Azar’s remarks come as tensions between Israel and Iran escalate following fresh Israeli strikes targeting nuclear installations in Tehran.

Speaking to Republic Media Network, Azar asserted Israel is aware that Iran was going to assemble nuclear weapon, stating, “In parallel with nuclear talks, Iran was assembling nukes… We have attacked Iran's nuclear facilities and missiles.”

Israel is half the size of Haryana or Mizoram, says Israeli Ambassador

Azar emphasised the dangers of Iran assembling a nuclear warhead, stating that nuclear weapons are Iran’s first track to annihilate Israel, while ballistic missiles pose a second threat. Iran reportedly planned to produce between 10,000 and 20,000 missiles within three to six years, a move that could have devastating consequences for Israel, a country half the size of Haryana or Mizoram.

Israel’s ongoing military strategy against Iran

Azar further stated that Israel has long known Iran was working on assembling nuclear weapons. Israeli forces have targeted Iran’s military command, including those in charge of its army and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).

However, Azar noted that “this is not enough, and the effort is ongoing.”

He described how Israel has been battling a "ring of fire" and proxy wars while preparing for a second round of attacks, following Iran's ballistic missile strikes against Israel.

According to Azar, the Israeli offensive has weakened Iran, although Israel does not yet have a full analysis of the impact of the strike. He stressed that Israel had been trying to prevent this threat for years but had now reached a decisive moment where action was required.

The existential threat to Israel from Iran

Azar remarked that Israel suffered an attempt at annihilation 80 years ago and has since sought to pressure Iran through sanctions. He warned that if Iran successfully develops a nuclear warhead, Israel could face an existential threat, as Iranian leaders have vowed to exterminate the nation.

Israel has approached this crisis pragmatically and diplomatically, he stated, recalling how one-third of Israel’s population was killed by Nazis when they vowed "Never again." According to Azar, “Israel's 'never again' moment is now.”

Israeli ambassador on Israel-US relations

Azar explained that if Israel had not targeted Iran’s critical nuclear installations, it would soon be dealing with a nuclear-armed Iran. He reiterated that India understands the consequences of having a nuclear rival, and Israel would face a similar situation if Iran succeeds in its nuclear ambitions.

Regarding Israel's ties with the United States, Azar stated that the US provided Israel with critical coordinates for the strike, ensuring Iran could not stall. He mentioned about US President's firm stance against Iran, but claimed that “Iran did not take him seriously enough.”

Iran’s breach of international agreements

Azar highlighted an IAEA report that confirms Iran’s violation of its nuclear agreements, warning that Iran would face isolation and consequences. He accused Iran’s army, IRGC chief, and scientists of being part of a criminal scheme, stating that “if Iran engages in a program to eliminate Israel, Israel will strike.”

Israel talks the talk and walks the walk, says Israeli Ambassador

Azar emphasised that while Israel is a small country, it is determined to survive and thrive. He said, “We don’t have a magic solution, but what we do have is determination, intelligence, and results. We talk the talk and walk the walk.”

He further asserted that Israel is not a superpower but a small nation, having invested billions in intelligence and defence systems.

Israel’s cooperation with the US and India

Azar stated that if Trump applies pressure, Israel could alter the situation, as it shares strong strategic bonds with the United States. He confirmed that Israel is working closely with the US and highlighted its deep cooperation with India.