Former Mossad Director David Barnea has warned that Iran will continue pursuing nuclear weapons as long as the current regime remains in power, arguing that a diplomatic agreement would not eliminate Tehran’s long-term ambitions. Speaking at the Israel Hayom Summit in New York on November 11, Barnea said Iran was already attempting to rebuild its nuclear program despite the damage inflicted during recent military operations. “As long as this regime exists, they will pursue a nuclear weapon to fulfill their ambitions to destroy our country and sow fear in the whole world,” he declared. Barnea argued that Tehran views its nuclear program as a critical means of preserving the regime and maintaining its ability to threaten Israel and other countries. He also questioned whether any agreement could prevent Iran from eventually restoring its nuclear capabilities, describing the likelihood of a deal that Tehran would honor while maintaining zero nuclear weapons capacity as very low. His remarks placed renewed scrutiny on the prospects for diplomacy as the international community weighs how to prevent Iran from rebuilding its nuclear infrastructure.

Barnea went further by warning that an agreement with Tehran could be interpreted as a reward for the regime’s strategy of supporting terrorism and threatening regional stability. He described such an arrangement as potentially granting Iran long-term immunity and political stability without resolving the underlying nuclear threat. However, he also acknowledged that another military confrontation would carry significant consequences, particularly for global energy markets and the wider economy. Instead, Barnea outlined an alternative centered on maintaining economic sanctions and imposing a complete blockade of the Strait of Hormuz to restrict Iran’s oil revenues. He argued that sustained economic pressure could weaken the regime while giving the Iranian people an opportunity to challenge its leadership, although he said the approach would require patience and determination. His comments underscore the difficult choices facing Israel and its allies: whether to pursue renewed military action, intensify economic pressure or seek an agreement with a government Barnea believes will continue pursuing nuclear weapons regardless of diplomatic commitments.