Barak discussed challenges, warning that the danger of a nuclear-armed Iran is greater than the measures taken to prevent Iran from gaining nuclear weapons
Date: 26/07/2012, 12:18 PM
Author: IDF Website
Defense Minister Ehud Barak spoke yesterday (Wednesday, July 25) at a graduation ceremony of the IDF's National Security College, which was also attended by Chief of the General Staff Lt. Gen. Benny Gantz and Commander of the IDF Academies Maj. Gen. Yossi Baidatz.
"In mid-2012, the State of Israel faces the most complex challenges that have confronted the security and political leadership in all of the years of Israel's existence," the Defense Minister said. "For nearly two years, the entire area around us has been roaring with increasing instability and security challenges that become more serious with each passing day. The events of the Arab Spring that gradually became an Islamic Summer teach us that in the moment of truth we can rely only on ourselves."
Regarding the Iranian arena, he added, "We may need to make difficult and critical decision regarding Israel's national security and its future. I am well aware of the depth and complexities involved in preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. However, I am certain beyond any doubt that dealing with that challenge itself [a nuclear-armed Iran] from the hour of its emergence – if it emerges – will be far more complicated, far more dangerous, and far more costly in human lives and resources."
Defense Minister Barak also discussed developments in Syria. "We are closely following the developments in Syria," he said. "Israel cannot allow the transfer of advanced weapons systems from Syria to Hezbollah. The whole world is aware that in Syria, government forces and irregular forces of the government are slaughtering and murdering civilians."
"Bashar Assad has lost the legitimacy of his rule. It seems that each passing day rapidly brings the end of the regime closer," he continued. "The international community's difficulties in formulating a response in the face of bloodshed and the deaths of innocents can teach us a lesson, illustrating the limitations of the international community's ability to muster political will, unity of purpose, and the ability to act – even when the situation necessitates it."