Israel Warns Iran on Nuclear Program, Cites Past Action

Moshe Edri, head of Israel's Atomic Energy Commission, addressed the 70th annual General Conference of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), focusing heavily on Iran's nuclear activities. Edri stated that Tehran poses a threat to Israel, neighboring countries, and American forces, while continuing to develop its missile infrastructure and pursue a military nuclear program.

He reminded the conference that over a year ago, the IAEA Board of Governors acknowledged Iran's failure to meet its nuclear safeguards obligations. Edri further noted that for more than a year, Iran has denied IAEA inspectors access to sites under its control. He estimated that Iran possesses over nine tons of nuclear material outside IAEA oversight, enough for more than ten nuclear bombs.

"The State of Israel will not stand idly by in the face of threats to its destruction. The region and the entire world will be safer without Iran's military nuclear program. We acted in the past to ensure our existence, and we will do so again if necessary," Edri declared.

Edri also addressed Syria, stating that a recent IAEA report on Syrian authorities' activities, including a secretly built reactor in Deir ez-Zor, validates Israel's prior assertions. He suggested that without an Israeli strike on that facility, the Assad regime might now possess a military nuclear capability.

Despite these concerns, Edri affirmed Israel's continued cooperation with the IAEA on nuclear safety, security, and the peaceful use of nuclear technology.