Israel's President Herzog Calls Iran 'Empire of Evil' in US Interview

President Isaac Herzog, in an interview with Fox News in the United States, characterized Iran as an "empire of evil" threatening the free world and stressed the imperative of preventing it from acquiring nuclear capabilities. He echoed sentiments previously expressed by former President Donald Trump, stating that Trump's analysis of the Iranian threat is "completely correct." Herzog emphasized that Iran's jihadist ideology drives its actions and its ambition to reach the United States, underscoring the need for global cooperation to counter its influence and prevent it from destabilizing the region.

Addressing the Houthi threat and its impact on global shipping lanes, Herzog noted that a "small tribe" is obstructing the vital Bab el-Mandeb strait, affecting the finances of Americans worldwide. He framed the confrontation with Iran as crucial, posing the question of whether the world will succumb to terror, harassment, and extortion or resist.

Regarding the investigation into a Flydubai flight incident, President Herzog stated that clear evidence points to a terrorist attack that could have had catastrophic global and regional consequences. He mentioned that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has announced that Israel's National Security Advisor and his team will conduct a thorough investigation to identify gaps and failures. Israel is cooperating with relevant regional actors and the UAE on this matter, highlighting the need for enhanced cooperation, particularly in aviation.

The President also marked the three-year anniversary of the October 7th massacre, recalling his 2023 address to Congress where he warned that terrorism threatened the future of peace in the region. He reiterated that Israel did not seek the war, which was imposed by "cruel and barbaric terrorists," and asserted that Israel's actions in self-defense are protecting the West and the entire free world, despite facing widespread criticism.