'Visit important.' Barak
Photo: Ariel Yarozolimesky
Barak on Iran: We must keep finger on trigger
Speaking to high schoolers, defense minister says Israel must strive for peace while maintaining military superiority
Defense Minister Ehud Barak addressed the Iranian nuclear threat and said, "The State of Israel is the strongest country in the region. However, we must recognize opportunities and not be confused by challenges."
"We must trust ourselves first and foremost – with our feet on the ground and our eyes to the sky. One hand looks to make peace deals and the other hand with a finger close to the trigger, prepared to defend," the defense minister said Tuesday during a visit to the Kaduri Agricultural High School in the lower Galilee.
Turning his attention to American Vice President Joe Biden's visit to the region, Barak said, "This is a mission of good will. The US is working diligently to strengthen Israel's (military) superiority in the face of the Iranian threat and other challenges in the region.
"The visit is important, and it comes at a crucial time, but is our ultimate responsibility to keep Israel strong while continuing to try and achieve peace with our neighbors," he added.
The defense minister said he hopes the indirect talks with the Palestinians, announced by US Mideast envoy George Mitchell on Monday, will lead to direct negotiations.
