Russia’s Foreign Ministry Expresses Concern Over Israel’s Alleged Nuclear Weapons
Russian officials have joined other countries in expressing grave concern over recent remarks made by a junior Israeli minister, implying that Israel possesses nuclear weapons and is open to using them against Gaza. The comments have raised numerous questions and sparked widespread unease.
Moscow’s reaction came on Tuesday, following an interview with Heritage Minister Amihai Eliyahu, who suggested that a nuclear strike on Gaza could be a viable option. This statement not only implies Israel’s possession of nuclear weapons, which the country has never officially admitted, but also the willingness to utilize them.
In response, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu took swift action, suspending the minister from a far-right party within the coalition government and cabinet meetings until further notice.
Maria Zakharova, spokeswoman for Russia’s foreign ministry, highlighted the significant issue of Israel seemingly confirming its nuclear capabilities. “Question number one – are we now hearing official statements about the presence of nuclear weapons?” Zakharova stated. She further questioned the absence of the International Atomic Energy Agency and international nuclear inspectors if these claims are indeed true.
According to estimates by the Federation of American Scientists, it is believed that Israel possesses approximately 90 nuclear warheads.
The United States swiftly condemned Eliyahu’s remarks as “wholly unacceptable” on Monday.
“We firmly believe it is crucial for all parties involved in this conflict to refrain from engaging in hateful rhetoric,” stated Vedant Patel, deputy State Department spokesperson at a briefing.
The comments also received widespread condemnation from the Arab world, and Iran called for an immediate international response.
“The UN Security Council and the International Atomic Energy Agency must take immediate and unremitting action to disarm this barbaric and apartheid regime,” posted Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian on social media. “Tomorrow is late,” he emphasized.
