‘Military weapons,’ not ‘program’

Raphael Ahren points out that even though Netanyahu’s four core demands remain the same, one thing was new in his speech.

Netanyahu is now making sure to talk about dismantling Iran’s “military” nuclear program, “or military weapons” program. That’s a rhetorical device meant to counter the argument that he’s denying the Iranian people the right to enrich uranium for civilian purpose — an Iranian aspiration Obama says he respects.

By repeating that he rejects the “nuclear weapons” program, Netanyahu looks less like someone who wants to deny the Iranians a legitimate request but rather like someone who is concerned about Iranian weapons.

Most Popular
If you’d like to comment, join
The Times of Israel Community.
Join The Times of Israel Community
Commenting is available for paying members of The Times of Israel Community only. Please join our Community to comment and enjoy other Community benefits.
Please use the following structure: example@domain.com
Confirm Mail
Thank you! Now check your email
You are now a member of The Times of Israel Community! We sent you an email with a login link to . Once you're set up, you can start enjoying Community benefits and commenting.