National Unity Party chairman MK Benny Gantz addressed the AJC Global Forum 2023 on Tuesday and commented on the reports of an agreement being formed between the US and Iran on the Iranian nuclear program.
The fight against Iran, said Gantz, “is a global struggle for the world order and for maintaining regional stability, whether it is through funding of Hamas and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad, spreading terror, whether it is through Hezbollah who plays a central role in the disintegration of Lebanon, wherever it is through Houthis in Yemen threatening and acting against Saudi Arabia and UAE.”
“Iran's actions affect the entire global surrounding and the entire Middle East, and bear in mind that with a nuclear umbrella, Iran will lead to a potential arm race in the Middle East and in the rise of Iranian aggression around the world, and for those reasons the world must stop it,” he added.
“Israel,” stressed Gantz, “will not be able to reconcile with such a reality. On the subject of Israel's security, there will be no difference between the coalition and the opposition here in Israel.”
“Should a responsible necessary and determined action be needed against Iran, and as a party leader in the opposition, I will provide my full support to the government. Unfortunately, we are closer than we have ever have been in the past in needing this act and I truly hope that the world will act before that time comes.”
On the internal challenges in Israel, the National Unity Party chairman said that Israel is currently fighting for its democratic identity.
“This struggle is not one between the citizens of Israel, as it is in the interest of all Israeli citizens. it is true: There are deep internal divisions. The last few months have resulted in a deep wound in the heart of the Israeli society, and from the very first moment I said my that personal commitment is to bring all sides to an understanding,” stated Gantz.
He added that in this struggle “there must not be any winners, and if we succeed in this complex mission we will emerge stronger than before, for the sake of the future generations, for the resilient and united Israel, and for the sake of all Democratic Jewish liberal strong and just Israeli society,” he added.