Key facts
- Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir believes the US is naive about Iran's nuclear ambitions.
- Ben-Gvir suggested Israel might act alone to confront Iran's nuclear threat.
- He stated Israel's security concerns must take precedence over allied dictates.
- The US Senate passed legislation to halt military action against Iran.
- Oman established a temporary maritime corridor for the Strait of Hormuz.
- Iran's central bank governor clarified the use of released frozen funds.
Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir expressed skepticism about the US approach to Iran, stating that Washington is "very naive" if it expects Tehran to abandon its nuclear program. Ben-Gvir suggested that Israel might need to "act alone" to confront the Iranian threat, emphasizing that Israel's security interests must come first, even if it means diverging from allies.
His remarks come as the US Senate advanced legislation to halt military action against Iran, though the vote is largely symbolic. Meanwhile, Oman has announced a temporary maritime corridor for vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz to ensure freedom of navigation. The governor of Iran's central bank stated that released frozen funds could be used to purchase US goods, but denied this was a requirement.
Ben-Gvir also warned against a "weak ceasefire" deal in Lebanon, asserting that Israel should reject any agreement that does not result in a decisive victory. He criticized past policies that he believed interpreted as weakness by adversaries and argued for a harsher response to attacks on Israel. He also referenced comments made by US Vice President JD Vance regarding the conflict in Lebanon and Israel's relationship with the US.