Netanyahu Vows Iran Will Never Get Nuclear Weapons Amid Criticism

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has firmly stated that Iran will never be allowed to acquire nuclear weapons, regardless of whether a deal is reached between Iran and the United States.

Speaking at a press conference on June 15, 2026, Netanyahu said Israel has successfully prevented what he described as an immediate threat to the country's existence. He claimed that Israel's actions had protected the nation from a serious security risk.

“Iran will never have nuclear weapons, not today and not tomorrow,” Netanyahu said. He added that Israel had removed a major threat and ensured the country's security.

His remarks come at a time when criticism is growing inside Israel over the proposed agreement between the United States and Iran. Netanyahu is facing opposition not only from political rivals but also from some members of his own governing coalition.

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Former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett, who is considered a leading challenger for the country's top post, strongly criticized the Netanyahu government. Bennett said the administration's term began with deep internal divisions, continued through the October 7 attacks, and is now ending with what he called a major failure in dealing with Iran.

Bennett promised that if elected, he would take a different approach to national security and diplomacy. He also said he would use his relationship with US President Donald Trump solely to advance Israel's national interests.

National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir also commented on the proposed US-Iran agreement, saying that the deal would not be binding on Israel.

Addressing reports of disagreements with President Trump, Netanyahu acknowledged that there are occasions when the two leaders do not fully agree. However, he stressed that Israel must always protect its own security interests.

The Israeli Prime Minister also rejected any possibility of withdrawing Israeli troops from southern Lebanon. Analysts have suggested that Israel's military presence in the area could complicate efforts to finalize a broader agreement aimed at ending regional hostilities.

Netanyahu said Israel has established security zones around its borders, including in Gaza, Lebanon, and Syria. He claimed that Israeli forces had destroyed military infrastructure and weapons belonging to the former Syrian regime and other hostile groups.

“We will remain in these security zones for as long as necessary to ensure Israel's security,” Netanyahu said.

Reaffirming his government's position, Netanyahu stated that Israel's military presence in the security buffer zone in southern Lebanon will continue for as long as it is required to protect the country.