Biggest Threat Ever’?

Israel faces existential threat if Iran gets nuclear weapons

Transcript:

Israel lives in a tough neighborhood. Surrounded by hostile Muslim nations and terrorist groups, it has fought defensive wars every decade of its sixty-year modern existence. But the next year or two could present Israel with its biggest threat ever. And, if President Obama’s Cairo speech is indicative of a new American attitude, Israel may face them more alone than ever.

Most nuclear experts agree Iran could have nuclear weapons within the next two years. And Israeli President Netanyahu has said they would do ‘whatever is necessary’ to prevent it. So, will Israel bomb Iran’s nuclear facilities, as they did Iraq’s in 1981 and Syria’s two years ago?

An attack would be difficult – There are a number of targets, they are either hidden or reinforced or buried deep underground. Israeli planes would have to refuel in the air to travel over 1000 miles to Iran. And finally, they would have to fly over the American air defense system in Iraq to get there.  Which means they would need to get President Obama’s permission in advance – which is unlikely – or risk of being shot down en route.

One Israeli general I talked to said such an attack would carry less than 50% chance of success and at best set back Iran’s nuclear program just a few years. But it would certainly put a chill in US-Israeli relations, and possibly lead to a rupture with the only friend Israel has in the world.

On the other hand, Iran regularly threatens to wipe Israel off the face of the earth. Iran’s President denies the holocaust ever existed. Iran supports Hezbollah and Hamas – terrorist groups who launch on again off again wars with Israel. Iran has tested long-range missiles capable of reaching Israel and carrying nuclear weapons.

President Obama has made it clear he wants better relations with the Muslim world, and especially with Iran.  Let’s  hope for everyone’s sake it works and Iran halts its nuclear program– If not Israel will be forced to choose between two very bad options.