Context
Differences emerged between Israel and the US over Iran’s nuclear program this week. The Israeli Defense Minister, Ehud Barak on Thursday criticized Washington. He said the US was likely to allow Iran to build nuclear weapons without taking military action against the country. “The difference between us and the Americans is this: We say that because the Iranians are busy moving their nuclear program to underground facilities, they can announce this (that they have a nuclear weapon) after it is no longer possible to attack it,” he said.
According to Israeli experts, Iran will be able to move its weapons to safety in 6-8 months. They also estimate Iran to have sufficient uranium to build 4-5 nuclear bombs.
The Chairman of the Joint US Chiefs of Staff, Gen. Martin Dempsey also admitted there were differences in Washington and Tel Aviv’s approach to Iran. “I am not sure that the Israelis share our outlook”, he said.
