Israeli Ambassador to India Reuven Azar has emphasized that Israel will persist in taking military actions against threats posed by Iran and its regional allies, notably Hezbollah. He stated that Israel is committed to acting as necessary to counter existential dangers, reiterating their stance on international law. Azar highlighted that Israel will respond whenever they perceive Iran developing weapons of mass destruction directed at Israel, considering Iran’s actions a clear breach of the UN Charter.
Referring to Israel’s right to self-defense under Article 51, Azar stressed the country’s determination to protect itself from adversaries aiming to destroy it. He pointed out a shift in the regional power balance favoring Israel due to recent military events and truces involving the US and Iran. Azar also mentioned that Israel has temporarily ceased direct strikes against Iran, redirecting its focus towards Hezbollah in Lebanon for heightened military efforts.
Azar mentioned past Israeli operations in Syria and Iraq targeting nuclear programs to demonstrate the country’s willingness to act independently when necessary. He expressed hope that such actions may not be required in the future, suggesting that sustained pressure on Iran could bring about policy changes or regime shifts. While acknowledging concerns about militant groups regrouping during a ceasefire, Azar downplayed their quick recovery potential, citing significant damage inflicted on their infrastructure by Israel.
Addressing the notion that continued strikes could provoke aggressiveness in adversaries, Azar dismissed this argument, emphasizing Israel’s goal to weaken threats rather than embolden them. He emphasized that Israel’s actions aim to debilitate threats and underscored the country’s commitment to self-defense. Azar also highlighted that Israel’s military stance will remain unchanged against perceived existential threats.
Regarding potential diplomatic mediation involving countries like Pakistan, Azar highlighted prioritized coordination with the US and refrained from commenting on specific mediators. Reaffirming Israel’s long-standing position, Azar concluded that the country will uphold its right to self-defense indefinitely, maintaining its military posture amid existential threats.
As the ceasefire between the US and Iran persists, Israel continued targeting Hezbollah installations in Lebanon, despite objections from Hezbollah and Iran regarding the ceasefire violation. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu clarified that Lebanon was not part of the ceasefire agreement. Concerns linger about the ceasefire’s durability, with US Vice President JD Vance cautioning about its fragility. Countries across the Gulf region and beyond closely monitor unfolding developments, hoping for lasting peace in the region.