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For
Avi Dichter
Former Shin Bet head; recently appointed minister for the home front
What he said and where
Backed Benjamin Netanyahu’s characterization of Iran as an “existential threat” in his first remarks as minister, August 19.
What it means
Believes Isreal must be prepared to act alone and attack Iran if necessay.
“Lebanon, Gaza and Syria pose a strategic threat, and Iran for the first time poses an existential threat.”
Ephraim Sneh
Former deputy defense minister
What he said and where
Barring a change in Iran’s stand, backed an attack before end of year in a briefing to the Israel Policy Forum on July 10.
What it means
Believes Israel’s window to act is short because winter conditions will soon make an attack impossible and Iran will have new defenses in place by spring.
“Our operational maneuvering is narrower than America’s.”
Moshe Ya’alon
Current minister for strategic affairs, former IDF chief of staff
What he said and where
Backed Barak and Netanyahu’s stance in June 13 Haaretz interview.
What it means
Believes Israel may have to act alone to remove what he sees as an existential threat.
“The Iranian nuclear threat is like a sword held to Israel’s throat….Under no circumstances will Israel agree to let the sword touch its throat.”’
Straddler
Amos Yadlin
Former head of military intelligence; director of Institute for National Security Studies
What he said and where
In a Washington Post opinion piece August 18, urged proactive diplomacy by Obama to reassure Israel and avert an Israeli attack.
What it means
Recommends that Obama address the Knesset to make clear his commitment to stop the Iranian bomb, and that he inform Congress in writing of his intention to use military force if diplomacy fails.
“If the U.S. wants Israel to give sanctions and diplomacy more time, Israelis must know they will not be left high and dry if these options fail.”
Based on reporting by Ben Lynfield and J.J. Goldberg.
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