Netanyahu Confirms Iran Nuclear Ambitions, Vows to Prevent Weaponization

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed on Thursday that Iran is attempting to rebuild its nuclear weapons program. Speaking in a video released from the Western Wall, Netanyahu stated, "President Trump announced this evening that Iran is trying to re-arm with nuclear weapons, this is true." He added that after Iran's immediate capability to produce nuclear bombs was destroyed, "they are trying again." Netanyahu pledged, "As long as I am prime minister, Iran will not have nuclear weapons." He also noted that Israel is striking the Iranian axis, not only in Gaza but also in Lebanon, where they have destroyed the Beaufort Ridge and are now dealing with the Ali Taher Ridge.

The Prime Minister's remarks come amid reports from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) of observed construction activity at the Marivan site in Iran. IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi told Bloomberg there are "indications of movement" around the construction site, but clarified that the agency has "no concrete information regarding activities that might be taking place there."

U.S. President Donald Trump also addressed the activity, stating that the U.S. has identified activity at Marivan and "we may have to strike there." He reiterated, "We cannot allow Iran to have nuclear weapons. It's very simple."

The Marivan site, located approximately 225 kilometers south of Tehran, has become a focal point for intelligence agencies due to suspicions that Iran may be working there to secretly revive its nuclear program. The site is suspected to be an underground nuclear facility, situated near the Natanz nuclear complex. Trump has repeatedly stated in recent weeks that the U.S. might take action against the site.