Iranian Vice President Accuses Israel of Nuclear Terrorism Regarding Natanz Site
Iranian Vice President Mohammad Javad Zarif accused Israel of nuclear terrorism, referencing an April 2021 attack on the Natanz uranium enrichment facility. He claimed that Israel rigged the site with explosives, affirming suspicions about its involvement. Zarif also emphasized how sanctions have led to vulnerabilities that Israel could exploit, affecting Iran’s technology acquisition and security capabilities.
Mohammad Javad Zarif, the Iranian Vice President, accused Israel of committing an act of “nuclear terrorism” by rigging a uranium enrichment facility with explosives. This accusation pertains to an incident in April 2021 at the Natanz uranium enrichment site, which resulted in damage to a power substation and thousands of centrifuges. Zarif stated that Israel’s actions confirmed the long-held suspicions of Iranian officials regarding culpability in the attack.
The incident at Natanz was reportedly orchestrated through an explosive device that was smuggled into the site and detonated remotely. While Israeli sources have been linked to various attacks on Iranian nuclear facilities, the Iranian government previously claimed the assault originated from within, identifying a “traitor” as responsible for the breach. Zarif’s comments mark a significant acknowledgment of Israel’s involvement, linking it with historical interventions such as the Stuxnet cyberattack.
Zarif elaborated on how sanctions imposed on Iran have escalated security vulnerabilities within the country. He argued that restrictions have compelled Iran to depend on intermediaries, thus allowing for the infiltration of Israeli operatives. He stated, “If the Zionist regime infiltrates even one of the intermediaries, they can do anything and embed anything they want.”
Moreover, Zarif indicated that the sanctions have not only had economic repercussions but have severely limited Iran’s capability to procure essential technology. He compared the circumstances to a past Mossad operation against Hezbollah, which had devastating consequences, leading to numerous casualties from detonation of devices.
The geopolitical tensions between Iran and Israel have been characterized by allegations of espionage and sabotage. The Natanz uranium enrichment site has frequently been a focal point, particularly after the Stuxnet cyberattack, which revealed vulnerabilities in Iran’s nuclear program. Sanctions imposed on Iran have further complicated its operations, leading to a reliance on intermediaries that increase susceptibility to security breaches.
In summary, Zarif’s allegations against Israel regarding the Natanz site underscore the ongoing hostilities and complexities of Iran’s nuclear ambitions. The use of sanctions not only affects Iran economically but also significantly impacts its operational security, which has been exploited by foreign entities. These developments highlight the precarious nature of international relations in the region and the implications for nuclear proliferation.
Original Source: www.jpost.com