Former Mossad Chief Warns Iran Pursuing Nuclear Weapons, Urges Hormuz Blockade

Former Mossad chief Dedi Barnea warned on Wednesday at the "Israel Hayom" conference in New York that Iran is actively working to rebuild its nuclear program. He stated that as long as the current Iranian regime persists, it will strive for nuclear weapons, regardless of any agreement. Barnea believes Iran views nuclear capability as the sole means to protect its fragile regime.

Barnea proposed a complete blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, coupled with continued economic sanctions, as a strategy to pressure the regime. He explained that the regime would struggle to survive with its collapsing economy and without oil export revenues. While acknowledging that war could accelerate the regime's collapse, he cautioned it would significantly disrupt the global energy market and economy.

The former intelligence chief strongly criticized the idea of returning to a nuclear deal with Iran, calling it a "gift of immunity and eternal stability" for a regime that employs a strategy of destruction and terror. He assessed the likelihood of Iran honoring a deal guaranteeing zero nuclear capabilities as low.

Barnea praised U.S. President Donald Trump's leadership, suggesting it would ultimately lead to the regime's downfall. He also commended Trump for prioritizing the world's long-term interests over short-term popularity. Barnea expressed hope that the Iranian people would eventually take to the streets to demand their freedom.

Reflecting on operational actions against Hezbollah, Barnea described the "Beepers Operation" as a surgical strike that incapacitated thousands of operatives and broke the spirit of Hezbollah commanders. He emphasized that dozens of checks were conducted to ensure zero civilian casualties or collateral damage, even at the cost of operational efficiency. He also referred to the elimination of Hassan Nasrallah as a "historic moment of pure justice," noting that the Mossad and Military Intelligence provided real-time intelligence for the strike in Lebanon.

Concluding his remarks, Barnea stated that Israel is significantly stronger than before, with Hamas and Hezbollah weakened. He suggested that peace with Lebanon is now an attainable possibility while Iran struggles for survival. He revealed that his own children participated in the fighting in Gaza, Lebanon, and Iran, defending Israeli homes and families. Barnea concluded by saying Israel must now decide its path forward with all options open.