KJF-2024: Iran is dangerously close to creating nuclear weapons – former Speaker of the Knesset

As of the fall of 2024, Iran is "dangerously close" to creating its own nuclear weapons.

This was stated by Yuli-Yoel Edelstein, Speaker of the Israeli Parliament in 2013-2020, during the Fifth Kyiv Jewish Forum.

According to him, Russia's war against Ukraine has shown Israel how cautiously partners act when the enemy has nuclear capabilities.

"When one of the parties possesses nuclear weapons, it certainly makes all countries that support the other side, let's say, be more cautious. There is an obvious and open desire of the Iranian regime to get nuclear weapons. Unfortunately, they are dangerously close to it. I am saying this not only to our Jewish friends in Ukraine, but also to the American and European leadership. One day it may be too late," Edelstein warned.

At the same time, he expressed hope for positive cooperation between Israel and the administration of the future US President Donald Trump.

"I know him personally, and we as the State of Israel know him. I would not surprise you if I told you that he has a very positive record in the American policy toward Israel. I can remind you of the relocation of the American embassy to Jerusalem, the recognition of our sovereignty over the Golan Heights, and other steps," Edelstein recalled.

Regarding cooperation between Ukraine and the United States, the Israeli politician is confident that it cannot be in the interests of the United States to withdraw from the war.

"I think it would be wise to think twice about American policy in this region, because the message that America does not want to interfere and others can do whatever they want is not a very positive message in the context of America First," the former Speaker of the Knesset is convinced.

He also stated that it is in the interests of the State of Israel to strengthen cooperation with Ukraine, especially at a time when there is close cooperation between the Iranian regime and Russia. Kyiv Jewish Forum is taking place for the fifth year in a row. This year, it is held online, and Washington, D.C. has become the central venue. Kyiv Jewish Forum is organized by the Jewish Confederation of Ukraine and by The Jerusalem Post.

Let’s recall that during the opening of the forum, President of the Jewish Confederation of Ukraine and Vice President of the World Jewish Congress Boris Lozhkin emphasized that Ukrainians and Israelis have high hopes for the return of the U.S. administration that has previously demonstrated its determination to help both Ukraine and Israel.