David Barnea, head of Mossad, warned that Iran continues to pursue nuclear weapons with the intent to target Israel. His remarks came six months after Israeli strikes on Iranian nuclear sites — operations supported by the U.S. that sparked a 12-day exchange of fire. Barnea pledged that Israel, in cooperation with the United States, will prevent Tehran’s nuclear program from being reactivated and rejected any future flawed nuclear deal.
Mossad Chief Warns Iran Still Seeks Nuclear Weapons, Vows To Block Any New Deal
Israel’s intelligence chief, Mossad head David Barnea, warned this week that Iran continues to pursue nuclear weapons with the intent of using them against Israel. His remarks came during a public speech underscoring Israel’s determination to prevent Tehran from acquiring a nuclear capability.
"Iran has not abandoned its ambition to destroy the State of Israel. The idea of continuing to develop a nuclear bomb still beats in their hearts," Barnea said.
Barnea’s comments follow Israeli strikes on Iranian nuclear sites six months earlier — operations carried out with U.S. support that touched off a 12-day exchange of fire between the two countries. He credited close cooperation with the United States for having "mortally wounded" parts of Iran’s nuclear project but stressed that preventing its reactivation remains Israel’s responsibility.
Diplomatic Warning
Beyond military and intelligence measures, Barnea expressed concern about the diplomatic front. He warned Tehran may attempt to secure another international agreement that Israel regards as flawed. "Iran believes it can once again fool the world and realize another bad nuclear deal. We did not and will not allow a bad deal to materialize," he said.
Barnea, who is due to step down in mid-2026, reiterated that Israel will continue to employ intelligence, diplomatic and, if necessary, operational means to stop Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon. His statement highlights the ongoing tensions and the international stakes surrounding Iran's nuclear ambitions.
