MOSCOW: Russia has voiced its concerns after an Israeli minister, Amihai Eliyahu, made remarks implying Israel’s possession of nuclear weapons and openness to using them against Palestinians in Gaza. The statement, made during a radio interview, suggested that a nuclear strike on Gaza could be one way to deal with the situation, raising alarm among international communities.
The comments sparked global condemnation, leading to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu suspending the minister from a far-right party in the coalition government and cabinet meetings, till further investigation.
Russia’s foreign ministry spokesperson, Maria Zakharova, highlighted the issue, questioning the admission of Israel’s nuclear weapons. “Question number one – it turns out that we are hearing official statements about the presence of nuclear weapons?” Zakharova stated, emphasizing the need for clarification and international oversight.
Russia Raises Concerns Over Israel’s Nuclear Arsenal
Zakharova further raised concerns about the absence of inspections from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and international nuclear inspectors, urging transparency and adherence to international norms.
The Federation of American Scientists estimates Israel’s nuclear arsenal to consist of approximately 90 warheads, further intensifying the need for international scrutiny. The United States also condemned Eliyahu’s remarks as “wholly unacceptable.” Deputy State Department spokesperson Vedant Patel emphasized the importance of refraining from hateful rhetoric in the ongoing conflict.
The remarks have garnered strong reactions from the Arab world, with Iran calling for a swift international response to address the situation and ensure global security.
🎙 Briefing by Russian MFA Spokeswoman Maria #Zakharova (Moscow, November 2, 2023)
🔹 #Ukraine
🔹 #GazaStrip #MiddleEast
🔹 #Moldova
🔹 #IOC📚 Read in full: https://t.co/V2vFImOIqd
🖥 Watch: https://t.co/YnmRbTL84O pic.twitter.com/sHCL9uAgHY— MFA Russia 🇷🇺 (@mfa_russia) November 7, 2023
