'IDF can destroy Iran's nuclear program'

IDF general tells Jewish reporters in Canada that Israel "has to be prepared for any eventuality."

By JPOST.COM STAFF
iaf planes 224.88 (photo credit: AP [file])
iaf planes 224.88
(photo credit: AP [file])
Israel can destroy Iran's growing nuclear program, a senior IDF officer was quoted as saying by 'The Canadian Jewish News' Web site on Wednesday. During an October 22 press briefing in Toronto for a few Jewish journalists, the unnamed brigadier-general said that Israel had the military capability to destroy or damage Iran's program. "Delay can also be helpful," he said. "We have to be prepared for any eventuality," he was quoted as saying. The general also said that the UN sanctions had had "some positive effects," although they haven't deterred Iran from pursuing nuclear capabilities. "We don't see anyone trying to stop Iran," he added. The officer also said that hitting Iran's nuclear facilities would be a great challenge, since its facilities are widely scattered and buried deep underground, the report said. Israel's policy until now has been to support international efforts to pressure Iran into ceasing its nuclear program, he said, adding that "[Israel] preferred to play a background role." "Iran is leading the radical resistance movement," he said in a reference to Hizbullah and Hamas. Addressing the Palestinian conflict, the IDF general was doubtful whether Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas was strong enough to implement a peace agreement, the Web site reported. The general also said that Israel might deal with Hamas politically if it recognized Israel's existence and accepted past agreements the PA signed with Israel.