Israeli Ambassador to India Reuven Azar has reiterated that Israel will continue its military operations against threats posed by Iran and its regional allies, including Hezbollah, asserting that such actions are necessary to safeguard the country’s existence. He stated that Israel would act repeatedly and decisively whenever it perceives a threat, particularly in response to concerns over weapons development that could be directed against it.
Speaking in an interview, Azar emphasised that Israel’s actions are grounded in international law, specifically citing the right to self-defence under Article 51 of the United Nations Charter. He described Iran’s posture as a direct violation of international norms and maintained that Israel is justified in taking preemptive or responsive military measures to counter existential risks.
He also indicated that recent developments, including the ceasefire dynamics between the United States and Iran, have shifted the regional balance of power in Israel’s favour. According to him, this shift not only strengthens Israel’s strategic position but also benefits other countries in the region as well as global stakeholders.
While confirming that Israel has, for now, paused direct strikes on Iran, Azar made it clear that military operations have not stopped altogether. Instead, Israel has intensified its focus on Hezbollah in Lebanon, aiming to neutralise threats along its northern border and restore conditions necessary for long-term stability and security.
Azar highlighted that Israel has historically acted unilaterally when required, citing past operations targeting nuclear programs in countries like Syria and Iraq. At the same time, he clarified that Israel does not intend to impose political outcomes within Iran or pursue an invasion, even as it continues to apply pressure that could influence Iran’s policies.
Addressing concerns about militant groups regaining strength during the ceasefire, he acknowledged that such groups might experience temporary relief but argued that the damage inflicted on their infrastructure, resources, and personnel would prevent any rapid recovery.
He dismissed the idea that continued military pressure could provoke greater aggression, asserting instead that such actions are aimed at weakening adversaries and reducing their operational capabilities.
On diplomatic efforts and mediation, Azar noted that Israel is primarily aligned with the United States and is allowing Washington to take the lead in negotiations. He refrained from commenting in detail on the involvement of other countries, including Pakistan, in the process.
Reaffirming Israel’s long-standing position, Azar concluded that the country will continue to exercise its right to self-defence as long as it faces threats to its security. Meanwhile, despite the ceasefire between the US and Iran, Israeli operations against Hezbollah in Lebanon have continued, with Israel maintaining that the agreement does not extend to that front.
The situation remains uncertain, with ongoing tensions and differing interpretations of the ceasefire raising questions about its durability, even as countries across the region closely monitor developments and hope for a more stable outcome.
