BREAKING: Netanyahu: Over A Year Ago, It Became Clear To Us That Iran Was Preparing Atomic Bombs To Destroy Us

According to Jerusalem post, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said that Iran would likely have developed a nuclear weapon if not for Israel’s military actions over the past 15 months, warning that such a scenario could have posed an existential threat to the Jewish state.

Speaking during a meeting with torchlighters ahead of Israel’s 78th Independence Day ceremony, Netanyahu stressed that decisive actions taken by Israel in early 2025 were critical in halting what he described as Iran’s nuclear ambitions.

“This year, we faced a massive test. A little over a year ago, it became clear to us that Iran was preparing atomic bombs to destroy us,” Netanyahu said, emphasizing the urgency that informed Israel’s response.

According to him, intelligence at the time indicated that Tehran was making significant progress toward building atomic weapons. “If we had not acted, Iran would now possess atomic bombs. That would have marked the beginning of the end for the Jewish people,” he added.

The Prime Minister referenced operations carried out in February and June 2025, suggesting that they disrupted Iran’s capabilities at a crucial stage. While he did not provide operational details, his remarks reflect Israel’s long-standing position that it will act to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, a stance he has reiterated over the years.

Netanyahu further reflected on the broader security challenges facing Israel, noting that threats against the Jewish people have persisted despite the establishment of the state. He added that while Israel’s adversaries remain active, the country’s ability to defend itself has significantly evolved.

“We have changed not only the Middle East but also ourselves,” he stated, highlighting Israel’s growing military and intelligence capabilities.

The event was attended by several dignitaries, including Transportation Minister Miri Regev and Netanyahu’s wife, Sara Netanyahu. Regev described the upcoming Independence Day ceremony as symbolic of national resilience and renewal, noting that each torchlighter represents a unique story of contribution to the state.

Originally, the ceremony was scheduled to be pre-recorded due to security concerns amid regional tensions involving Iran and Hezbollah. However, recent ceasefire arrangements have allowed organizers to proceed with a live broadcast, signaling a temporary easing of hostilities.

Among the invited torchlighters is Javier Milei, who is currently visiting Israel. He is also expected to meet with President Isaac Herzog during his trip and receive a national honor.

Israel has consistently maintained that it will take all necessary measures to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, a policy that continues to shape its security posture amid ongoing regional uncertainty.