Israel warns of Iran nearing nuclear weapons amid tensions in Tehran

Israeli Defence Secretary Yoav Gallant has expressed grave concerns regarding Iran's nuclear ambitions, stating that the regime is nearing the capability to acquire nuclear weapons after years of unchecked atomic research. This warning comes amid heightened tensions following the assassination of Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran, which has prompted Israel to prepare for potential retaliatory strikes. Gallant criticized Britain's recent partial arms embargo, viewing it as detrimental to Israel's security interests, especially in light of ongoing hostilities in the region. The situation has escalated with Hezbollah's involvement, as the group has launched missiles at northern Israel since the October 7 massacre by Hamas. Gallant emphasized that Israel is ready to respond to threats from Hezbollah, which he described as suffering significant losses due to Israeli military actions. He reiterated Israel's commitment to protecting its citizens and ensuring their safety amid the ongoing conflict. Gallant's remarks highlight the strategic challenges Israel faces, particularly regarding the dual threats from Iran and its proxies. He underscored the importance of international cooperation, particularly with Britain, to address these security concerns. The Defence Minister's statements reflect a broader Israeli strategy to counteract Iranian influence and prevent the development of nuclear capabilities that could destabilize the region further. As the conflict continues, Israel remains on high alert, with military readiness increasing daily. Gallant's comments serve as a reminder of the precarious security situation in the Middle East and the urgent need for diplomatic efforts to mitigate the risks posed by Iran's nuclear program and its support for militant groups.