“We understand that the Iranians still retain some knowledge and materials that we cannot eliminate,” he remarked. “Nonetheless, what we have eradicated are vital elements of the program, without which assembling a nuclear weapon is impossible.”
Azar identified several targets that were struck, including the covert group developing a nuclear device, the conversion site at Isfahan, the centrifuge facility in Natanz, and Iran’s atomic energy agency. He noted that American forces had also targeted Fordow, a significant nuclear site.
Despite the military achievements, Azar stressed that Israel favors a diplomatic resolution, as long as it is enforceable. “We hope that diplomacy continues to make progress towards an agreement — a verifiable one — ensuring that Iran does not resume those plans.”
Regarding the ceasefire facilitated by US President Donald Trump, Azar affirmed that it is currently holding, with life in Israel resuming its normal pace. However, he mentioned a brief violation that occurred shortly after the ceasefire began. “Just one hour after it was meant to take effect, the Iranians launched two ballistic missiles. We felt compelled to respond.”
He credited Trump’s intervention with averting further escalation. “We are very grateful to President Trump — he called our Prime Minister and requested our jets to stand down, which we adhered to.”
Azar warned that threats to the ceasefire could extend beyond direct missile attacks. “It’s not merely a situation where the Iranians resume fire, but also an effort by Iran to re-establish the threats — the imminent threats that were jeopardizing our nation.”
Watch the accompanying video for more
