IDF Chief of Staff Lt.-Gen. Gabi Ashkenazi warned Wednesday night that although the diplomatic option was preferable, it is in Israel's interest to be prepared for all possibilities in dealing with the Iranian nuclear threat.

"We are all united in thinking that Iran should not be allowed to obtain nuclear weapons and there is no doubt that the preference is for diplomatic activity and sanctions. This is the Israeli and the American preference. But everyone understands, both the Americans and certainly us, that all options must be prepared for," he said.

Ashkenazi made the remarks during a week-long visit to Washington DC in which he is meeting with U.S. military officials.