Skip to main content

Netanyahu: Iran Agreement Ignores Aggression

CBN

Share This article

JERUSALEM, Israel -- Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel views Russia's announced sale of S-300 surface-to-air anti-missile system to Iran with "utmost gravity."

"Israel views with utmost gravity the supply of S-300 missiles from Russia to Iran, especially at a time when Iran is stepping up its aggression in the region and around the borders of the State of Israel," Netanyahu said at the beginning of the weekly cabinet meeting.

"Israel also views with utmost gravity the fact that there is no reference to this aggression in the agreement being made between the major powers and Iran. There is no stipulation that this aggression be halted, whether at the start of the agreement or as a condition for the lifting of sanctions," he continued.

"Yesterday we saw the military parade in Tehran and Iran's exhibition of weapons to the world. Every year the missiles are bigger and enhanced in accuracy, strength and deadliness; however, one thing does not change. What does not change is the inscription 'Death to Israel' on the missiles. Against the threats that I have described, Israel will do whatever is necessary to defend the security of the state and its citizens," he concluded.

In a related matter, Israel will not send a high-level delegation to Russia's celebration marking the 70th anniversary of the end of World War II. Russia takes great pride in its defeat of Nazi Germany near the end of the war.

Israel Radio said the reason given was that the ceremony will take place on the Sabbath, therefore making it illegal by Israeli law for the leaders to attend.

But some analysts say Russia's announced sale of the S-300 and its aggression in the Ukraine has factored into some countries' decisions to forego the event.

France and Germany also declined the invitation, but other international leaders are participating, including North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and Chinese President Xi Jinping.

Share This article