'Iran clearly developing nuclear weapons program'

FM tells Knesset Foreign Affairs, Defense C'tee that hyperactive chatter of former officials on Tehran damaging to Israel.

Interior of Bushehr nuclear plant 370 (photo credit: REUTERS/Stringer Iran)
Interior of Bushehr nuclear plant 370
(photo credit: REUTERS/Stringer Iran)
Iran is undoubtedly working on a nuclear program for military purposes, Foreign Minister Avigdor Liberman told the Knesset Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee on Wednesday.
"We know that they are attempting to enrich uranium over 20 percent. There is no doubt that this is a nuclear military plan, Liberman said. It is obvious to all that Iran is trying to hide proof of its nuclear program, but we can see proof in satellite photos."
According to Liberman, Iran is prepared to pay a price for nuclear weapons, and sanctions will not stop their aspirations.
The foreign minister also slammed former security officials who have said that an attack on Iran will not be effective, saying that their hyperactive chatter is damaging and moves international attention to Israel, instead of Iran.
Liberman added that the Iranians "try to hurt our representatives around the world every single day."
He also pointed out that Iran is helping Syrian President Bashar Assad stay in power.
Click here for full Jpost coverage of the Iranian threat
Click here for full Jpost coverage of the Iranian threat
"Assad is stronger than what [IDF] intelligence has been saying," he stated. "At the same time, I don't think there is a chance he will stay in power."
Liberman explained that the conflict in Syria is becoming religious and not just an internal issue.
The foreign minister also discussed the Palestinians, saying that Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas has no interest to return to peace talks, and only cares about unity with Hamas.
"We have given a lot [to the Palestinians] and didn't get anything back.Look at he Gaza disengagement," he pointed out.