27 apr 2013
Israeli assessment: Iran behind downed drone
Israel believes that Iranian Revolutionary Guard, Hezbollah's patrons, behind launch of droned which penetrated Israeli air space Thursday only to be downed by IAF
Assessments that Iran is behind the launch of the unmanned drone into Israel airspace Thursday is gaining popularity among Israel's senior military and political echelons. According to current assessments, the drone, which was downed by an IAF F-16 jet a few kilometers west of Haifa's shore line, was sent by the Iranian Revolutionary Guard, in contradiction to previous assessments that Hezbollah was behind the launch.
The Iranian forces, it is believed, are active on Lebanese soil in an attempt to assist Assad's Syrian regime as well as Hezbollah, and according to assessments they are charged with developing Hezbollah's drone capabilities, both in terms of hardware and know-how.
The terrorist Shiite group was quick to deny it was behind – or even involved – in Thursday's launch, and the IDF 's spokesperson unit was also careful not to directly attribute the drone to the organization. IAF F-16 jets which were scrambled from the Ramat David base were the ones who successfully downed the unmanned aircraft.
The unmanned aircraft, which was flying at an altitude of about 6,000 feet (1,800 meters), when it was downed, apparently entered Israel's airspace from the north and was heading south. A number of explosions were reportedly heard in the area.
Israel Navy vessels were then sent to search for drone's wreckage and reports of an Israeli flyover in Lebanon followed its interception.
The IDF's Spokesperson's Unit issued a statement saying, "Today (Thursday) the (army) thwarted the penetration of an unmanned aircraft into Israeli territory. Shortly after 1 pm a drone was identified as it was flying north to south along the Lebanese coastline. The air defense system tracked it for (several) minutes while it was still in Lebanese territory, and it was under surveillance throughout its flight until the interception.
"IAF planes were scrambled, as were combat helicopters, after it was determined that the aircraft was not friendly, and certainly not (an Israeli) aircraft. The Air Force commander authorized the interception," the army said. In response to the incident, Prime Minister Benjamin said: “I see this attempt to cross into Israeli territory as a very serious issue. We will continue to do whatever is necessary to ensure the citizens of Israel remain safe.” the PM said in a statement.
The prime minister received an update on the attempted infiltration of Israeli airspace when he was on a flight to the country’s north. The prime minister’s helicopters landed for a short time, until the drone was shot down, and then continued on its way.
Assessments that Iran is behind the launch of the unmanned drone into Israel airspace Thursday is gaining popularity among Israel's senior military and political echelons. According to current assessments, the drone, which was downed by an IAF F-16 jet a few kilometers west of Haifa's shore line, was sent by the Iranian Revolutionary Guard, in contradiction to previous assessments that Hezbollah was behind the launch.
The Iranian forces, it is believed, are active on Lebanese soil in an attempt to assist Assad's Syrian regime as well as Hezbollah, and according to assessments they are charged with developing Hezbollah's drone capabilities, both in terms of hardware and know-how.
The terrorist Shiite group was quick to deny it was behind – or even involved – in Thursday's launch, and the IDF 's spokesperson unit was also careful not to directly attribute the drone to the organization. IAF F-16 jets which were scrambled from the Ramat David base were the ones who successfully downed the unmanned aircraft.
The unmanned aircraft, which was flying at an altitude of about 6,000 feet (1,800 meters), when it was downed, apparently entered Israel's airspace from the north and was heading south. A number of explosions were reportedly heard in the area.
Israel Navy vessels were then sent to search for drone's wreckage and reports of an Israeli flyover in Lebanon followed its interception.
The IDF's Spokesperson's Unit issued a statement saying, "Today (Thursday) the (army) thwarted the penetration of an unmanned aircraft into Israeli territory. Shortly after 1 pm a drone was identified as it was flying north to south along the Lebanese coastline. The air defense system tracked it for (several) minutes while it was still in Lebanese territory, and it was under surveillance throughout its flight until the interception.
"IAF planes were scrambled, as were combat helicopters, after it was determined that the aircraft was not friendly, and certainly not (an Israeli) aircraft. The Air Force commander authorized the interception," the army said. In response to the incident, Prime Minister Benjamin said: “I see this attempt to cross into Israeli territory as a very serious issue. We will continue to do whatever is necessary to ensure the citizens of Israel remain safe.” the PM said in a statement.
The prime minister received an update on the attempted infiltration of Israeli airspace when he was on a flight to the country’s north. The prime minister’s helicopters landed for a short time, until the drone was shot down, and then continued on its way.
24 apr 2013
Attacking Iran will be Israel last mistake: Vahidi
Iran Defense Minister Brigadier General Ahmad Vahidi
Iranian Defense Minister Brigadier General Ahmad Vahidi says military action against Iran will be the Zionist regime’s last mistake.
“The US and the Zionist regime’s threats have no value and at the same time, show their aggressive nature, and reveal their deceitful and misleading claims,” Vahidi said on Wednesday.
He reiterated Iran’s complete readiness to give a swift response to any military aggression against the country.
Vahidi advised US authorities to try and solve the problems in their own country instead of making warmongering remarks.
The Iranian Defense Minister made the remarks after US Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel supported the Tel Aviv regime’s warmongering rhetoric against the Islamic Republic on April 21, saying Washington and Israel see “exactly the same” threat from Tehran.
Vahidi said the United States issues inhuman threats while proudly donating weapons and funds to the criminal regime of Israel, which is notorious for killings and terrorist actions.
On April 16, the US Senate Foreign Relations Committee adopted "Senate Resolution 65," according to which the US will provide the Israeli regime with diplomatic, economic and military assistance if Tel Aviv decides to launch an attack against Iran.
Israeli Chief of Staff Lt. Gen Benny Gantz said earlier on the same day that, "We have our plans and forecasts.... If the time comes, we'll decide" on whether to take military action against Iran.
The US, Israel and some of their allies have repeatedly accused Iran of pursuing non-civilian objectives in its nuclear energy program, with the Israeli regime repeatedly threatening to attack Iran's nuclear facilities based on the unfounded allegation.
Iran has rejected the allegations and warned that any military action could result in a war that would spread beyond the Middle East.
Iranian Defense Minister Brigadier General Ahmad Vahidi says military action against Iran will be the Zionist regime’s last mistake.
“The US and the Zionist regime’s threats have no value and at the same time, show their aggressive nature, and reveal their deceitful and misleading claims,” Vahidi said on Wednesday.
He reiterated Iran’s complete readiness to give a swift response to any military aggression against the country.
Vahidi advised US authorities to try and solve the problems in their own country instead of making warmongering remarks.
The Iranian Defense Minister made the remarks after US Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel supported the Tel Aviv regime’s warmongering rhetoric against the Islamic Republic on April 21, saying Washington and Israel see “exactly the same” threat from Tehran.
Vahidi said the United States issues inhuman threats while proudly donating weapons and funds to the criminal regime of Israel, which is notorious for killings and terrorist actions.
On April 16, the US Senate Foreign Relations Committee adopted "Senate Resolution 65," according to which the US will provide the Israeli regime with diplomatic, economic and military assistance if Tel Aviv decides to launch an attack against Iran.
Israeli Chief of Staff Lt. Gen Benny Gantz said earlier on the same day that, "We have our plans and forecasts.... If the time comes, we'll decide" on whether to take military action against Iran.
The US, Israel and some of their allies have repeatedly accused Iran of pursuing non-civilian objectives in its nuclear energy program, with the Israeli regime repeatedly threatening to attack Iran's nuclear facilities based on the unfounded allegation.
Iran has rejected the allegations and warned that any military action could result in a war that would spread beyond the Middle East.
23 apr 2013
IAEA: UN atomic agency, Iran to meet May 15
The UN atomic agency said Tuesday it will hold with Iran on May 15 in Vienna what will be the 10th round of talks since late 2011 on Tehran's suspected nuclear bomb-making efforts.
"The Agency and Iran have agreed to hold further talks in Vienna on 15 May", International Atomic Energy Agency spokeswoman Gill Tudor said.
"The Agency and Iran have agreed to hold further talks in Vienna on 15 May", International Atomic Energy Agency spokeswoman Gill Tudor said.
21 apr 2013
Israel seeks Turkish airbase for attack on Iran: Report
A file photo of an F-21 Kfir aircraft
A recent report says the visit by Israeli National Security Council Head Yaakov Amidror to Turkey is aimed at securing an airbase in Iran’s neighbor to pave the way for a military attack against the Islamic Republic.
In an article, the Sunday Times said that during his visit on Sunday, Amidror is expected to solicit Turkey’s agreement with regard to the deployment of Israeli fighter jets in Akinci airbase, northwest of Ankara, in exchange for advanced military equipments and technology, the Times of Israel reported.
“Until the recent crisis, Turkey was our biggest aircraft carrier. Using the Turkish airbases could make the difference between success and failure once a showdown with Iran gets underway,” Sunday Times quoted an unnamed Israeli military source as saying.
Ankara agreed to restore relations with Tel Aviv on March 22 after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu apologized to Turkey for the deaths of nine Turkish activists in a 2010 Israeli attack on a Gaza-bound international flotilla.
Israel also agreed to pay compensation to the families of those who were killed by Israeli commandos. The apology was brokered by US President Barack Obama during his recent visit to Israel.
The Israeli source added that the regime’s military has been “lobbying hard for the politicians to find a form of apology, in order to restore the Israeli-Turkish alliance against Syria and Iran.”
The trip comes as the Israeli military chief recently repeated its war threats against Iran, saying the regime can invade Iran on its own.
"We have our plans and forecasts... If the time comes we'll decide" on whether to take military action against Iran, Lt. Gen. Benny Gantz said on April 16.
Netanyahu has also recently said that the US-engineered sanctions against Iran over its nuclear energy program might not be enough.
The US, Israel and some of their allies accuse Iran of pursuing non-civilian objectives in its nuclear energy program with the Israeli regime repeatedly threatening to attack Iran's nuclear facilities based on the unsubstantiated allegation.
Iran argues that as a committed signatory to the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and a member of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), it has every right to use nuclear technology for peaceful purposes. Iran has further promised a crushing response to any act of aggression against it.
Unlike Iran, Israel, which is widely believed to possess between 200 to 400 nuclear warheads, is a non-signatory to the NPT and continues to defy international calls to join the treaty.
A recent report says the visit by Israeli National Security Council Head Yaakov Amidror to Turkey is aimed at securing an airbase in Iran’s neighbor to pave the way for a military attack against the Islamic Republic.
In an article, the Sunday Times said that during his visit on Sunday, Amidror is expected to solicit Turkey’s agreement with regard to the deployment of Israeli fighter jets in Akinci airbase, northwest of Ankara, in exchange for advanced military equipments and technology, the Times of Israel reported.
“Until the recent crisis, Turkey was our biggest aircraft carrier. Using the Turkish airbases could make the difference between success and failure once a showdown with Iran gets underway,” Sunday Times quoted an unnamed Israeli military source as saying.
Ankara agreed to restore relations with Tel Aviv on March 22 after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu apologized to Turkey for the deaths of nine Turkish activists in a 2010 Israeli attack on a Gaza-bound international flotilla.
Israel also agreed to pay compensation to the families of those who were killed by Israeli commandos. The apology was brokered by US President Barack Obama during his recent visit to Israel.
The Israeli source added that the regime’s military has been “lobbying hard for the politicians to find a form of apology, in order to restore the Israeli-Turkish alliance against Syria and Iran.”
The trip comes as the Israeli military chief recently repeated its war threats against Iran, saying the regime can invade Iran on its own.
"We have our plans and forecasts... If the time comes we'll decide" on whether to take military action against Iran, Lt. Gen. Benny Gantz said on April 16.
Netanyahu has also recently said that the US-engineered sanctions against Iran over its nuclear energy program might not be enough.
The US, Israel and some of their allies accuse Iran of pursuing non-civilian objectives in its nuclear energy program with the Israeli regime repeatedly threatening to attack Iran's nuclear facilities based on the unsubstantiated allegation.
Iran argues that as a committed signatory to the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and a member of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), it has every right to use nuclear technology for peaceful purposes. Iran has further promised a crushing response to any act of aggression against it.
Unlike Iran, Israel, which is widely believed to possess between 200 to 400 nuclear warheads, is a non-signatory to the NPT and continues to defy international calls to join the treaty.
Hagel: US-Israel arms deal sends 'clear signal' to Iran
A major US arms deal with Israel sends a "very clear signal" to Tehran that military action remains an option to stop it from going nuclear, US Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel told reporters Sunday.
Asked if a multi-billion dollar arms package with Israel was designed to convey a message that a military strike remains an option, he said: "I don't think there's any question that's another very clear signal to Iran."
Hagel was speaking just before his plane touched down in Tel Aviv at the start of a six-day tour of the region focused on plans to sell $10 billion worth of advanced missiles and aircraft to Israel, the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia in a bid to counter the threat posed by Iran.
The deal will see Israel obtaining anti-radiation missiles designed to take out enemy air defenses, radar for fighter jets, aerial refueling tankers and Osprey V-22 tilt-rotor transport aircraft.
It will also see the sale of US F-16 fighter jets to the United Arab Emirates and sophisticated missiles to Saudi Arabia.
Details were unveiled on the eve of Hagel's departure on a trip which will focus heavily on tensions over Iran's nuclear program and the civil war raging in Syria.
American and Israeli leaders have been at odds over Iran, with President Barack Obama's administration arguing that tough sanctions and diplomacy need to be given more time to work.
But Israel, believed to be the Middle East's sole if undeclared nuclear power, has repeatedly warned that time is running out and has refused to rule out a pre-emptive military strike to prevent Iran from obtaining an atomic weapons capability.
Hagel plans to discuss with his counterparts in the region the final details of the arms deal, and US officials have said it would be months or more for the new weapons and aircraft to be delivered.
Asked if a multi-billion dollar arms package with Israel was designed to convey a message that a military strike remains an option, he said: "I don't think there's any question that's another very clear signal to Iran."
Hagel was speaking just before his plane touched down in Tel Aviv at the start of a six-day tour of the region focused on plans to sell $10 billion worth of advanced missiles and aircraft to Israel, the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia in a bid to counter the threat posed by Iran.
The deal will see Israel obtaining anti-radiation missiles designed to take out enemy air defenses, radar for fighter jets, aerial refueling tankers and Osprey V-22 tilt-rotor transport aircraft.
It will also see the sale of US F-16 fighter jets to the United Arab Emirates and sophisticated missiles to Saudi Arabia.
Details were unveiled on the eve of Hagel's departure on a trip which will focus heavily on tensions over Iran's nuclear program and the civil war raging in Syria.
American and Israeli leaders have been at odds over Iran, with President Barack Obama's administration arguing that tough sanctions and diplomacy need to be given more time to work.
But Israel, believed to be the Middle East's sole if undeclared nuclear power, has repeatedly warned that time is running out and has refused to rule out a pre-emptive military strike to prevent Iran from obtaining an atomic weapons capability.
Hagel plans to discuss with his counterparts in the region the final details of the arms deal, and US officials have said it would be months or more for the new weapons and aircraft to be delivered.
18 apr 2013
Iran will give swift response to any Israeli aggression: Vahidi
Iran’s Defense Minister Brigadier General Ahmad Vahidi has downplayed the Israeli regime’s military threats against the country, saying Iran will respond to any misdeed by the Tel Aviv regime in the shortest possible time .
As reiterated by Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, Iran has great military capabilities, Vahidi told reporters on Thursday on the sidelines of a ceremony on the occasion of the National Army Day.
“The constant threats by the Zionist regime (Israel) against Iran are so worthless and they cannot do anything against our nation because they know that any measure will lead them to full annihilation,” the Iranian minister pointed out.
“We don’t think that the Zionist regime will take such an unwise action to commit suicide,” Vahidi added.
In his message on the occasion of Nowruz (Persian New Year) on March 21, Ayatollah Khamenei said Iran would raze Tel Aviv to the ground if Israel carried out a military strike against the Islamic Republic.
“Israel’s leaders sometimes threaten Iran, but they know that if they do a damn thing, the Islamic Republic will raze Tel Aviv and [the occupied city of] Haifa to the ground,” the Leader stated.
Vahidi made the remarks after Israel’s Chief of Staff Lt. Gen Benny Gantz repeated the regime’s warmongering rhetoric against Iran on Tuesday.
"We have our plans and forecasts... If the time comes we'll decide" on whether to take military action against Iran, Gantz said.
Similar remarks were made by other Israeli officials, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Minister for Military Affairs Moshe Ya'alon.
Meanwhile, Netanyahu said that US-engineered sanctions against Iran over its nuclear energy program might not be enough.
The US, Israel and some of their allies have repeatedly accused Iran of pursuing non-civilian objectives in its nuclear energy program with the Israeli regime repeatedly threatening to attack Iran's nuclear facilities based on the unfounded allegation.
Iran argues that as a committed signatory to the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and a member of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), it has every right to use nuclear technology for peaceful purposes.
Unlike Iran, Israel, which is widely believed to possess between 200 to 400 nuclear warheads, is a non-signatory to the NPT and continues to defy international calls to join the treaty.
As reiterated by Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, Iran has great military capabilities, Vahidi told reporters on Thursday on the sidelines of a ceremony on the occasion of the National Army Day.
“The constant threats by the Zionist regime (Israel) against Iran are so worthless and they cannot do anything against our nation because they know that any measure will lead them to full annihilation,” the Iranian minister pointed out.
“We don’t think that the Zionist regime will take such an unwise action to commit suicide,” Vahidi added.
In his message on the occasion of Nowruz (Persian New Year) on March 21, Ayatollah Khamenei said Iran would raze Tel Aviv to the ground if Israel carried out a military strike against the Islamic Republic.
“Israel’s leaders sometimes threaten Iran, but they know that if they do a damn thing, the Islamic Republic will raze Tel Aviv and [the occupied city of] Haifa to the ground,” the Leader stated.
Vahidi made the remarks after Israel’s Chief of Staff Lt. Gen Benny Gantz repeated the regime’s warmongering rhetoric against Iran on Tuesday.
"We have our plans and forecasts... If the time comes we'll decide" on whether to take military action against Iran, Gantz said.
Similar remarks were made by other Israeli officials, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Minister for Military Affairs Moshe Ya'alon.
Meanwhile, Netanyahu said that US-engineered sanctions against Iran over its nuclear energy program might not be enough.
The US, Israel and some of their allies have repeatedly accused Iran of pursuing non-civilian objectives in its nuclear energy program with the Israeli regime repeatedly threatening to attack Iran's nuclear facilities based on the unfounded allegation.
Iran argues that as a committed signatory to the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and a member of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), it has every right to use nuclear technology for peaceful purposes.
Unlike Iran, Israel, which is widely believed to possess between 200 to 400 nuclear warheads, is a non-signatory to the NPT and continues to defy international calls to join the treaty.
17 apr 2013
US Senate: Will back Israeli attack on Iran
Foreign Relations Committee of the US Senate votes in favor of resolution stipulating that US will support Israel in case it was forced to take military action against Iran.
WASHINGTON — Members of the US Senate's Foreign Relations Committee have adopted "Senate Resolution 65," according to which the US will support Israel in case it is compelled to take military action and actualize its right to self defense in the face of an Iranian threat.
The resolution stipules that Israel will enjoy Washington's diplomatic, economic and military aid.
According to the resolution, sponsored by Sen. Robert Menendez and Sen. Lindsey Graham, the US's policy is to halt Iranian nuclear ambitions.
Senate Resolution 65 has successfully gained the support of 70 of the 100 senators. In a statement issued by AIPAC it was noted that “The Senate Foreign Relations Committee has sent a very clear and enormously important message of solidarity with Israel against the Iranian nuclear threat—which endangers American, Israeli, and international security.”
President Barack Obama sent his holiday wishes to Israel on its 65th Independence Day, stating: "On this date 65 years ago, the Jewish people realized their dream of the ages – to be masters of their fate in their own sovereign state."
"The strong and prosperous Israel we see today proves Herzl's vision – 'if you will it, it is no dream," the US president added.
WASHINGTON — Members of the US Senate's Foreign Relations Committee have adopted "Senate Resolution 65," according to which the US will support Israel in case it is compelled to take military action and actualize its right to self defense in the face of an Iranian threat.
The resolution stipules that Israel will enjoy Washington's diplomatic, economic and military aid.
According to the resolution, sponsored by Sen. Robert Menendez and Sen. Lindsey Graham, the US's policy is to halt Iranian nuclear ambitions.
Senate Resolution 65 has successfully gained the support of 70 of the 100 senators. In a statement issued by AIPAC it was noted that “The Senate Foreign Relations Committee has sent a very clear and enormously important message of solidarity with Israel against the Iranian nuclear threat—which endangers American, Israeli, and international security.”
President Barack Obama sent his holiday wishes to Israel on its 65th Independence Day, stating: "On this date 65 years ago, the Jewish people realized their dream of the ages – to be masters of their fate in their own sovereign state."
"The strong and prosperous Israel we see today proves Herzl's vision – 'if you will it, it is no dream," the US president added.
10 apr 2013
Hamas extends condolences to Iran over earthquake victims
Hamas extended condolences on Tuesday to the Islamic Republic of Iran over the fall of victims in the violent earthquake that shook Kaki city in southern Iran.
A strong earthquake measuring 6.1 on the Richter scale had struck the town of Kaki near the southern Iranian city of Bushehr, killing at least 30 people and leaving more than 800 injured.
According to the Iranian Seismological Center, the quake has hit the town of Kaki, some 90 kilometers southeast of Bushehr, at 4:22 pm local time (1152 GMT) on Tuesday.
The quake was followed by at least four aftershocks which jolted Kaki and the nearby city of Khour-Mowj.
A strong earthquake measuring 6.1 on the Richter scale had struck the town of Kaki near the southern Iranian city of Bushehr, killing at least 30 people and leaving more than 800 injured.
According to the Iranian Seismological Center, the quake has hit the town of Kaki, some 90 kilometers southeast of Bushehr, at 4:22 pm local time (1152 GMT) on Tuesday.
The quake was followed by at least four aftershocks which jolted Kaki and the nearby city of Khour-Mowj.
7 apr 2013
Israel will not rely on other countries regarding Iran: Netanyahu
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says Tel Aviv cannot rely on other countries when it comes to dealing with what he calls an Iranian nuclear threat.
The Israeli prime minister made the remarks in East al-Quds (Jerusalem) on Sunday.
He said that his government appreciated efforts made by other countries -- even allies -- in facing Iran, but added, “We won't leave our fate in the hands of others.”
The United States, Israel, and some of their allies have repeatedly accused Iran of pursuing non-civilian objectives in its nuclear energy program.
Iran rejects the allegations, arguing that as a committed signatory to the nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and a member of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), it is entitled to develop and acquire nuclear technology for peaceful purposes.
In addition, the IAEA has conducted numerous inspections of Iran's nuclear facilities but has never found any evidence showing that the Iranian nuclear program has been diverted to nuclear weapons production.
The Israeli prime minister made the remarks in East al-Quds (Jerusalem) on Sunday.
He said that his government appreciated efforts made by other countries -- even allies -- in facing Iran, but added, “We won't leave our fate in the hands of others.”
The United States, Israel, and some of their allies have repeatedly accused Iran of pursuing non-civilian objectives in its nuclear energy program.
Iran rejects the allegations, arguing that as a committed signatory to the nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and a member of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), it is entitled to develop and acquire nuclear technology for peaceful purposes.
In addition, the IAEA has conducted numerous inspections of Iran's nuclear facilities but has never found any evidence showing that the Iranian nuclear program has been diverted to nuclear weapons production.
Israel: Iran must face nuclear ultimatum
Israel's strategic affairs minister on Sunday called on the international community to slap Iran with a firm ultimatum of "a few weeks, a month" to stop enriching uranium or face a possible military strike.
Speaking to army radio, Yuval Steinitz, who also holds the intelligence portfolio, said the latest inconclusive round of nuclear talks between Iran and world powers proved that Iran was stalling.
"The Iranians are playing games and laughing all the way to the bomb," he said.
"It is time to present the Iranians with a military threat or some kind of red line, an unequivocal ultimatum from the entire world, (which must be delivered) by the United States and the West," Steinitz said.
Speaking to army radio, Yuval Steinitz, who also holds the intelligence portfolio, said the latest inconclusive round of nuclear talks between Iran and world powers proved that Iran was stalling.
"The Iranians are playing games and laughing all the way to the bomb," he said.
"It is time to present the Iranians with a military threat or some kind of red line, an unequivocal ultimatum from the entire world, (which must be delivered) by the United States and the West," Steinitz said.
Israel says time for 'firmer stand' on Iran
Yuval Steinitz, stands in front of a map of the Middle East as he speaks to the press in 2004, in Jerusalem
Israel said it was time for world powers to adopt a "firmer stand" with Iran on its controversial nuclear program after their latest round of negotiations closed on Saturday without any breakthrough.
"It is time for the world to take a firmer stand and tell the Iranians in no uncertain terms that the masquerade of negotiations is about to end," Strategic Affairs and Intelligence Minister Yuval Steinitz said.
"Israel has already warned that the Iranians are using the rounds of negotiations to win time to advance their uranium enrichment to the stage of acquiring a nuclear weapon," he said.
"Without a tangible and significant threat, together with a short, clear and definitive timetable, it will not be possible to dismantle the nuclear program," the minister said.
Iran and world powers at talks in the Kazakh city of Almaty failed to break the deadlock in the crisis over Tehran's nuclear drive, with EU foreign policy chief Catherine Ashton saying the positions were still "far apart".
Ashton represented the world powers -- comprised of the five permanent UN Security Council members plus Germany -- as chief negotiator at the negotiations on Friday and Saturday.
The clock is running down on diplomacy to solve the crisis, with Iran's arch foe Israel refusing to rule out air strikes against the Islamic republic to halt its nuclear drive.
Iran denies charges is developing the atomic bomb and argues that it requires a nuclear programme solely for peaceful purposes.
Israel said it was time for world powers to adopt a "firmer stand" with Iran on its controversial nuclear program after their latest round of negotiations closed on Saturday without any breakthrough.
"It is time for the world to take a firmer stand and tell the Iranians in no uncertain terms that the masquerade of negotiations is about to end," Strategic Affairs and Intelligence Minister Yuval Steinitz said.
"Israel has already warned that the Iranians are using the rounds of negotiations to win time to advance their uranium enrichment to the stage of acquiring a nuclear weapon," he said.
"Without a tangible and significant threat, together with a short, clear and definitive timetable, it will not be possible to dismantle the nuclear program," the minister said.
Iran and world powers at talks in the Kazakh city of Almaty failed to break the deadlock in the crisis over Tehran's nuclear drive, with EU foreign policy chief Catherine Ashton saying the positions were still "far apart".
Ashton represented the world powers -- comprised of the five permanent UN Security Council members plus Germany -- as chief negotiator at the negotiations on Friday and Saturday.
The clock is running down on diplomacy to solve the crisis, with Iran's arch foe Israel refusing to rule out air strikes against the Islamic republic to halt its nuclear drive.
Iran denies charges is developing the atomic bomb and argues that it requires a nuclear programme solely for peaceful purposes.
6 apr 2013
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Iran denounces Britain's plan to upgrade nuclear arms
Iran has criticized Britain’s plan to upgrade its nuclear weapons capability, renewing the Islamic Republic’s call for a world free from nuclear weapons. In an exclusive interview with Press TV on Saturday, Secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council Saeed Jalili reiterated that Iran’s position is “No one should possess nuclear weapons.” "At the same time, all signatories to the Non-Proliferation Treaty must have the right to peaceful nuclear energy," he urged. The Iranian official denounced the West’s double standards regarding the right to nuclear energy. Jalili noted while certain countries explicitly possess nuclear warheads and conduct military nuclear tests, others are barred from developing nuclear energy for civilian purposes. |
Nuclear powers must be held accountable for their behaviors before the international community, he added.
He called on the UN Security Council to take action to disarm those countries, instead of focusing on a country which is trying to access nuclear energy to meet its medical needs.
British Prime Minister David Cameron recently unveiled a plan to renew UK’s fleet of Vanguard-class submarines with more sophisticated nuclear systems.
Each of the four submarines is armed with up to 16 ballistic Trident-2 missiles and 40 nuclear warheads.
It is estimated that the upgrade will cost UK tax-payers nearly 40 billion US dollars.
He called on the UN Security Council to take action to disarm those countries, instead of focusing on a country which is trying to access nuclear energy to meet its medical needs.
British Prime Minister David Cameron recently unveiled a plan to renew UK’s fleet of Vanguard-class submarines with more sophisticated nuclear systems.
Each of the four submarines is armed with up to 16 ballistic Trident-2 missiles and 40 nuclear warheads.
It is estimated that the upgrade will cost UK tax-payers nearly 40 billion US dollars.
30 mar 2013
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Iran’s envoy urges UN action against Israeli regimeIranian Ambassador to the United Nations Mohammad Khazaei has called on the UN Security Council to take action against the Israeli regime’s atrocities and to oblige Tel Aviv to abide by international law, Press TV reports.
Khazaei, who also serves as the chairman of the coordination center of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), met with UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon and the Security Council president on Thursday. During the meeting, the Iranian envoy pressed for more practical steps on the part of the UN to make the Israeli regime accountable for its actions against the Palestinian population in the Gaza Strip and other Palestinian territories. |
“From a regime that has been created by pressure and is taking the lands of people and also killing people, you cannot expect more than this. That is a problem… We need more action to take place by the United Nations Security Council against Israel’s crimes against humanity as well as the Palestinians,” Khazaei said.
The Tel Aviv regime has increased its illegal settlement expansion following an upgrade of Palestine’s status at the UN to a non-member observer state on November 29, 2012.
The Israeli regime plans to build more than 5,000 new settler units in East al-Quds, despite objections from the international community.
More than half a million Israelis live in over 120 settlements built since the 1967 Israeli occupation of the West Bank and East al-Quds. Much of the international community considers the settlements illegal.
In January, the United Nations called on the Israeli regime to cease all its settlement activities without preconditions in compliance with article 49 of the Fourth Geneva Convention. However, Tel Aviv has remained defiant.
On December 19, 2012, the UN secretary general warned that Tel Aviv’s continued settlement activities in the occupied Palestinian territories could inflict “an almost fatal blow” to future talks between Palestinians and Israelis.
The Tel Aviv regime has increased its illegal settlement expansion following an upgrade of Palestine’s status at the UN to a non-member observer state on November 29, 2012.
The Israeli regime plans to build more than 5,000 new settler units in East al-Quds, despite objections from the international community.
More than half a million Israelis live in over 120 settlements built since the 1967 Israeli occupation of the West Bank and East al-Quds. Much of the international community considers the settlements illegal.
In January, the United Nations called on the Israeli regime to cease all its settlement activities without preconditions in compliance with article 49 of the Fourth Geneva Convention. However, Tel Aviv has remained defiant.
On December 19, 2012, the UN secretary general warned that Tel Aviv’s continued settlement activities in the occupied Palestinian territories could inflict “an almost fatal blow” to future talks between Palestinians and Israelis.
22 mar 2013
US channel CBS distorts Ayatollah Khamenei’s remarks
US broadcaster CBS has distorted remarks by Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei regarding the proposed talks between Tehran and Washington about Iran’s nuclear energy program.
On Thursday, the US channel quoted Ayatollah Khamenei as saying that Iran and the United States are ready to go ahead with direct talks about the issue of “nukes”.
But the Leader never mentioned “nukes” in his keynote speech in the holy city of Mashhad.
In his address marking the Persian New Year, the Ayatollah Khamenei said, “Through different ways and messages, the Americans try to negotiate with us on the nuclear issue, but I am not optimistic about these talks.”
“I am not opposed to talks with regard to the nuclear issue, but certain issues must be clarified,” the Leader stated.
The US, Israel, and some of their allies have repeatedly accused Iran of pursuing non-civilian objectives in its nuclear energy program and have used the unfounded accusation as a pretext to impose illegal sanctions on the Islamic Republic.
Iran rejects the allegations, arguing that as a committed signatory to the nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and a member of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), it has the right to use nuclear technology for peaceful purposes.
In addition, the IAEA has conducted numerous inspections of Iran's nuclear facilities but has never found any evidence showing that Iran's civilian nuclear program has been diverted to nuclear weapons production.
On Thursday, the US channel quoted Ayatollah Khamenei as saying that Iran and the United States are ready to go ahead with direct talks about the issue of “nukes”.
But the Leader never mentioned “nukes” in his keynote speech in the holy city of Mashhad.
In his address marking the Persian New Year, the Ayatollah Khamenei said, “Through different ways and messages, the Americans try to negotiate with us on the nuclear issue, but I am not optimistic about these talks.”
“I am not opposed to talks with regard to the nuclear issue, but certain issues must be clarified,” the Leader stated.
The US, Israel, and some of their allies have repeatedly accused Iran of pursuing non-civilian objectives in its nuclear energy program and have used the unfounded accusation as a pretext to impose illegal sanctions on the Islamic Republic.
Iran rejects the allegations, arguing that as a committed signatory to the nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and a member of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), it has the right to use nuclear technology for peaceful purposes.
In addition, the IAEA has conducted numerous inspections of Iran's nuclear facilities but has never found any evidence showing that Iran's civilian nuclear program has been diverted to nuclear weapons production.
US strongly committed to resolving differences with Iran: Kerry
US Secretary of State John F. Kerry has expressed Washington’s ‘strong’ commitment to settle its differences with Iran amid President Barack Obama’s repetition of speculative statements about Iran’s nuclear energy program.
"Despite the difficult history of the last decades between the United States and Iran, there is an opportunity to work diplomatically to reduce tensions and address the mistrust between our two countries, to the mutual benefit of both of our people," Kerry said in a statement.
"As President Obama has said, we are strongly committed to resolving the differences between Iran and the United States, and continuing to work toward a new day in our relationship," Kerry added.
In the statement, issued on Wednesday on the occasion of the Persian New Year, Kerry said that on Nowruz, US leaders would "like to reaffirm our desire to continue building strong people-to-people ties to promote greater understanding, peace, and progress."
Elsewhere in his statement, Kerry also pointed to international concern over Iran’s nuclear energy activities and expressed hope that the Iranian officials would "fulfill their obligations."
Speaking in a joint press conference with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in East al-Quds (Jerusalem) on Wednesday, Obama gave a fresh boost to the Western media war against Iran over its nuclear energy program and said that "all options are on the table."
The US president added that Washington “will do what is necessary to prevent Iran from obtaining the world’s worst weapons” while reaffirming that “there is time to resolve this issue diplomatically."
This is not the first time that top US officials lay emphasis on diplomacy as the main channel to resolve issues pertaining to Iran's nuclear energy program, revealing a policy shift from President Obama’s first term when his defense chief Leon Panetta time and again threatened Iran with a military option.
On February 22, US State Department spokeswoman Victoria Nuland said the US was willing “to meet bilaterally with the Iranian side,” repeating an offer Vice President Joe Biden had made earlier at the 49th annual Munich Security Conference in Germany on February 2.
However, addressing large crowds of people in the Iranian city of Mashhad on Thursday on the occasion of Nowruz (Iranian new year), Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei alluded to the US repeated offers of direct talks with Iran and said, “Through different ways and messages, the Americans try to negotiate with us on the nuclear issue, but I am not optimistic about these talks.”
“I am not opposed to talks with regard to the nuclear issue, but certain issues must be clarified,” Ayatollah Khamenei said.
The Leader added, “Negotiation is an American tactic for deceiving the public opinion and if it is otherwise the Americans should prove it.”
Iran has vehemently rejected repeated accusations leveled by the United States, Israel, and some of their allies accusing Tehran of pursuing non-civilian objectives in its nuclear energy program.
The US and the European Union have used the unfounded accusation as a pretext to impose illegal sanctions on the Islamic Republic.
Iran argues that as a committed signatory to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) and a member of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), it has the right to use nuclear technology for peaceful purposes.
"Despite the difficult history of the last decades between the United States and Iran, there is an opportunity to work diplomatically to reduce tensions and address the mistrust between our two countries, to the mutual benefit of both of our people," Kerry said in a statement.
"As President Obama has said, we are strongly committed to resolving the differences between Iran and the United States, and continuing to work toward a new day in our relationship," Kerry added.
In the statement, issued on Wednesday on the occasion of the Persian New Year, Kerry said that on Nowruz, US leaders would "like to reaffirm our desire to continue building strong people-to-people ties to promote greater understanding, peace, and progress."
Elsewhere in his statement, Kerry also pointed to international concern over Iran’s nuclear energy activities and expressed hope that the Iranian officials would "fulfill their obligations."
Speaking in a joint press conference with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in East al-Quds (Jerusalem) on Wednesday, Obama gave a fresh boost to the Western media war against Iran over its nuclear energy program and said that "all options are on the table."
The US president added that Washington “will do what is necessary to prevent Iran from obtaining the world’s worst weapons” while reaffirming that “there is time to resolve this issue diplomatically."
This is not the first time that top US officials lay emphasis on diplomacy as the main channel to resolve issues pertaining to Iran's nuclear energy program, revealing a policy shift from President Obama’s first term when his defense chief Leon Panetta time and again threatened Iran with a military option.
On February 22, US State Department spokeswoman Victoria Nuland said the US was willing “to meet bilaterally with the Iranian side,” repeating an offer Vice President Joe Biden had made earlier at the 49th annual Munich Security Conference in Germany on February 2.
However, addressing large crowds of people in the Iranian city of Mashhad on Thursday on the occasion of Nowruz (Iranian new year), Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei alluded to the US repeated offers of direct talks with Iran and said, “Through different ways and messages, the Americans try to negotiate with us on the nuclear issue, but I am not optimistic about these talks.”
“I am not opposed to talks with regard to the nuclear issue, but certain issues must be clarified,” Ayatollah Khamenei said.
The Leader added, “Negotiation is an American tactic for deceiving the public opinion and if it is otherwise the Americans should prove it.”
Iran has vehemently rejected repeated accusations leveled by the United States, Israel, and some of their allies accusing Tehran of pursuing non-civilian objectives in its nuclear energy program.
The US and the European Union have used the unfounded accusation as a pretext to impose illegal sanctions on the Islamic Republic.
Iran argues that as a committed signatory to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) and a member of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), it has the right to use nuclear technology for peaceful purposes.
21 mar 2013
Iran will raze Tel Aviv to ground if Israel attacks: Ayatollah Khamenei
Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei says Iran will raze Tel Aviv to the ground if Israel launches a military strike against the Islamic Republic.
“Israel’s leaders sometimes threaten Iran, but they know that if they do a damn thing, the Islamic Republic will raze Tel Aviv and [the occupied city of] Haifa to the ground,” Ayatollah Khamenei said on Thursday in an address to large crowds of people in the northeastern Iranian city of Mashhad on the occasion of Nowruz (Iranian new year).
The Leader pointed out that the enemy seeks to create hurdles through sanctions and threats and downplay Iran’s achievements through propaganda, as its two major strategies against the Iranian nation.
“The center of conspiracy and the basis of hostility with the Iranian nation is the US government,” Ayatollah Khamenei noted.
The Leader pointed to the effects of the West’s embargoes against Iran over its nuclear energy program, saying, “Besides the negative effects of the sanctions, a highly positive impact also took place and the huge potential of the Iranian nation was activated and the talents of the youths of our country flourished."
“Thanks to the sanctions, the Iranian nation embarked on enormous activities and massive infrastructural works were done in the year 1391 [Persian calendar year].”
The Leader alluded to the repeated offers of direct talks with the Islamic Republic by the United States and said, “Through different ways and messages, the Americans try to negotiate with us on the nuclear issue, but I am not optimistic about these talks.”
“I am not opposed to talks with regard to the nuclear issue, but certain issues must be clarified,” Ayatollah Khamenei said.
The Leader pointed to the US claim that they intend to be honest in their talks with Iran and noted, “We have repeatedly asserted that we do not seek nuclear weapons but you do not believe this honest word; why should we accept your word?”
“Negotiation is an American tactic for deceiving the public opinion and if it is otherwise the Americans should prove it,” the Leader said.
Touching on Iran’s comprehensive negotiations with the P5+1 (permanent members of the UN Security Council plus Germany), Ayatollah Khamenei said that Washington does not want the talks to come to a conclusion, adding, “With regard to the nuclear issue, Iran only wants the recognition of its rights to enrichment.”
The Leader noted that the US seeks to prolong the course of the negotiations in an attempt to “paralyze” the Iranian nation and said, “Iran will never be crippled and if the Americans want the issue to be over, there is one simple solution which is the US should put aside its enmity with the Iranian nation.”
Elsewhere in his remarks, Ayatollah Khamenei pointed to Iran’s 11th presidential election in June and called for a high turnout in the poll in a bid to disappoint the enemies and ensure national security.
The Leader underscored the importance of participation of various political spectrums in the election and noted, “All the [political] views and factions that believe in the Islamic Republic should participate; this is both a right and obligation, as election in the Islamic Republic is not for a specific political view and faction.”
“Israel’s leaders sometimes threaten Iran, but they know that if they do a damn thing, the Islamic Republic will raze Tel Aviv and [the occupied city of] Haifa to the ground,” Ayatollah Khamenei said on Thursday in an address to large crowds of people in the northeastern Iranian city of Mashhad on the occasion of Nowruz (Iranian new year).
The Leader pointed out that the enemy seeks to create hurdles through sanctions and threats and downplay Iran’s achievements through propaganda, as its two major strategies against the Iranian nation.
“The center of conspiracy and the basis of hostility with the Iranian nation is the US government,” Ayatollah Khamenei noted.
The Leader pointed to the effects of the West’s embargoes against Iran over its nuclear energy program, saying, “Besides the negative effects of the sanctions, a highly positive impact also took place and the huge potential of the Iranian nation was activated and the talents of the youths of our country flourished."
“Thanks to the sanctions, the Iranian nation embarked on enormous activities and massive infrastructural works were done in the year 1391 [Persian calendar year].”
The Leader alluded to the repeated offers of direct talks with the Islamic Republic by the United States and said, “Through different ways and messages, the Americans try to negotiate with us on the nuclear issue, but I am not optimistic about these talks.”
“I am not opposed to talks with regard to the nuclear issue, but certain issues must be clarified,” Ayatollah Khamenei said.
The Leader pointed to the US claim that they intend to be honest in their talks with Iran and noted, “We have repeatedly asserted that we do not seek nuclear weapons but you do not believe this honest word; why should we accept your word?”
“Negotiation is an American tactic for deceiving the public opinion and if it is otherwise the Americans should prove it,” the Leader said.
Touching on Iran’s comprehensive negotiations with the P5+1 (permanent members of the UN Security Council plus Germany), Ayatollah Khamenei said that Washington does not want the talks to come to a conclusion, adding, “With regard to the nuclear issue, Iran only wants the recognition of its rights to enrichment.”
The Leader noted that the US seeks to prolong the course of the negotiations in an attempt to “paralyze” the Iranian nation and said, “Iran will never be crippled and if the Americans want the issue to be over, there is one simple solution which is the US should put aside its enmity with the Iranian nation.”
Elsewhere in his remarks, Ayatollah Khamenei pointed to Iran’s 11th presidential election in June and called for a high turnout in the poll in a bid to disappoint the enemies and ensure national security.
The Leader underscored the importance of participation of various political spectrums in the election and noted, “All the [political] views and factions that believe in the Islamic Republic should participate; this is both a right and obligation, as election in the Islamic Republic is not for a specific political view and faction.”