BICOM

IDF Chief of Staff Benny Gantz told a gathering of US congressmen, administration officials and defence strategists that now is not the time to make concessions over Iran’s nuclear programme.

In November 2013, an interim Joint Plan of Action was concluded between the P5+1 powers (US, UK, France, Russia, China and Germany) and Iran, under which Iran agreed to pause aspects of its nuclear programme in return for a relaxation of some sanctions. The terms of the arrangement, originally intended to last for just six months, were extended last year until the end of June 2015 after P5+1 representatives and Iranian officials failed to agree a long-term accord on Tehran’s nuclear development.

It was announced this week that the next round of talks towards a permanent arrangement would begin on 18 January in Geneva with a meeting of respective political directors. Ahead of the negotiations, Gantz spoke at a dinner in his honour at the Israeli Embassy in Washington during a week-long visit to the United States and Canada prior to stepping down from his position next month. Guests included former Secretary of State General Colin Powell, Senator Lindsey Graham and other lawmakers. Gantz told them that “now is not the time for concessions” as “Iran is currently under major pressure.” Gantz said that although he hopes that a resolution can be found without the use of force, “the results should be the right ones” under any agreement.

Gantz also addressed other regional issues. He said he believes “Israel will try and try and try” to reach a peace accord with the Palestinians, adding, “I think we should try as much as possible for the benefit of the region and the benefit for both nations.”

Former US Undersecretary of Defence for Policy, Michele Flourney, who has been touted as a possible future Defence Secretary also spoke in praise of Gantz, emphasising, “At the heart of the very special relationship is the United States unshakeable commitment to the security of the state of Israel.”