Netanyahu: Israel Has Right To Defend Itself

Published March 6, 2012 3:36AM (EST)

WASHINGTON (AP) — Israel's prime minister is vigorously asserting his country's right to defend itself against an Iranian nuclear threat.

Benjamin Netanyahu's tough talk suggests he would attack Iranian nuclear facilities alone if he thinks Israel needs to do that.

Netanyahu told a gathering of the pro-Israel lobby on Monday that Israel has "patiently waited" for diplomacy and sanctions to work.

He says, "None of us can afford to wait much longer. As prime minister of Israel, I will never let my people live in the shadow of annihilation."

His approach was starkly at odds with President Barack Obama's appeal earlier Monday to give diplomacy and sanctions more time to work before resorting to force.


By Salon Staff

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