Netanyahu signals Israel may strike Iran alone

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has indicated that Israel could take unilateral military action against Iran, despite ongoing diplomatic efforts aimed at easing tensions between Tehran and Washington.

According to Anadolu Agency, Netanyahu said on Wednesday (August 5) that Israel remains determined to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons after comments by Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) commander Ahmad Vahidi, who reportedly reiterated Tehran's intention to continue its nuclear programme.

"As Israel's prime minister, I am committed to ensuring that Iran never obtains nuclear weapons," Netanyahu said, adding that while the United States remains Israel's "greatest ally," his government would do "whatever is necessary" to safeguard the country's security.

His remarks came as mediation efforts between the United States and Iran continue to gather momentum. On Tuesday, Qatar's Foreign Ministry said negotiations had reached an "advanced stage," with both sides exchanging draft proposals in pursuit of a diplomatic settlement.

Regional tensions, however, remain high following months of military confrontation. According to Iranian authorities, more than 3,000 people have been killed since hostilities with the United States and Israel escalated earlier this year. Tehran has also claimed responsibility for attacks targeting US military assets in Jordan, Bahrain and Kuwait.

Talks aimed at securing a broader agreement have repeatedly stalled, largely over disputes surrounding maritime security and freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, leaving the future of diplomacy uncertain.