Barak to Gates: All options viable on Iran
Defense minister meets American counterpart in Jerusalem to discuss Iranian nuclear threat. 'We prefer to defend ourselves independently,' Barak states. Gates says, 'We will continue to ensure that Israel has the most advanced weapons for its national defense'
"We do not conceal our position. I believe that no option should be ruled out, and I recommend that others adopt the same approach," Defense Minister Ehud Barak said Monday regarding Iran's nuclear program. He spoke shortly after meeting his American counterpart Robert Gates in Jerusalem.
Barak said that where the Iranian nuclear threat is concerned, Israel prefers to defend itself independently, "despite what (Gates) said about preference being given to diplomacy and sanctions at this stage".
Gates in known as one of the prominent speakers in the White House in favor of dissuading Israel from possible plans to attack Iran's nuclear facilities.
"We are grateful to the US administration for its continued financial and technological support, that helps us maintain our military superiority. We would rather take the tools and the support and take care of defending Israel ourselves," he said.
"We are not blind. We know everything we do has implications on our neighbors, we take this into account, but ultimately we are committed to Israel's security interests," said Barak.
"It is always good to know that the United States, as the strongest world power and leader of the free world, stands by the free, moderate states against rogue elements in the Middle East and other corners of the globe," Barak added.
Gates and Barak in Jerusalem (Photo: AFP)
On the American proposal for dialogue with Iran, Barak reiterated his position that "Talks with Iran should have a time limit; significant sanctions should be prepared in advance."
Acknowledging Israel's concerns, Gates said the US administration's attempt to engage Iran was "not an open-ended offer" and that the US was aware Iran might try to "run out the clock."
"We will deal with the situation at the appropriate time," Gates said, saying he hoped Iran would respond by the UN General Assembly this fall. He said sanctions were a possibility if diplomacy fails, while also mentioning plans for a loosely defined "defense umbrella" meant to protect US allies in the region.
"We will continue to ensure that Israel has the most advanced weapons for its national defense," he said.
The US secretary of defense is scheduled to meet with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu later Monday.
