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Against
Yuval Diskin
Former chief of Shin Bet
What he said and where
Told residents of Kfar Sava on April 27 that he does not trust the judgment of Prime Minister Netanyahu or Defense Minister Ehud Barak.
What it means
Believes an Israeli strike is liable to accelerate Iran’s nuclear program rather than eliminate it.
“I don’t believe in either the prime minister or the defense minister. I don’t believe in a leadership that makes decisions based on messianic feelings.”
Uzi Even
Former senior scientist in Israel’s secret nuclear weapons program.
What he said and where
On August 19, called for Israel to propose closing its Dimona nuclear reactor in exchange for the halting of Iran’s nuclear program.
What it means
Believes Iran’s nuclear facilities are dispersed and buried, and that a strike could touch off a war of attrition, lasting years. Has also said that Dimona is an old facility, and warned of a danger of a mishap there in any event.
“No one in the world believes Israel will be empty-handed against a nuclear Iran.”
Benny Gantz
Current IDF chief of staff
What he said and where
In an April 25 Haaretz interview, voiced doubt that Iran would finalize development of nuclear bomb; said Israel preparing to attack, if necessary.
What it means
Doubts Iran’s leaders prepared to incur international consequences of developing a nuclear bomb.
“I don’t think [Iranian Supreme leader Ali Khamenei] will want to go the extra mile…. The Iranian leadership is [composed] of very rational people.’’
Ephraim Halevy
Former head of the Mossad
What he said and where
Said in Channel Two interview on August 4 that Israel should not launch a unilateral strike.
What it means
Believes external support is crucial for success.
“It would not be desirable for Israel to act alone.”’
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