'Israel Air Force chief warns: Invade Iran or negotiate'

Former commander of the Israeli Air Force, Maj.-Gen. (res.) Eitan Ben Eliyahu, stated that Israel faces a critical choice: launch a full-scale war against Iran, including a ground invasion, or rely on economic sanctions combined with renewed negotiations. He made the remarks during an interview on 103FM.

Ben Eliyahu reflected on Israels June 2025 campaign, known as Operation Rising Lion, which targeted Iranian nuclear and missile facilities. He noted that while the operation delayed Tehrans nuclear program for several years, it did not eliminate it. Our strikes may have slowed the program, but they did not remove it entirely, he said, warning that Iran is carefully studying Israels actions and adapting its strategies for the future.

The former IAF chief outlined the lessons Iran has drawn from the strikes: enhancing missile numbers and accuracy, relocating launch sites eastward and southward, increasing dispersion, and improving the element of surprise. Although the campaign set back Iran, Ben Eliyahu stressed that Tehran is actively addressing its vulnerabilities.

Regarding Lebanon, Ben Eliyahu described the situation as delicate. He said Israel continues to act within the framework of its agreement with the United States, emphasizing that operations beyond these limits could undermine the deal. He added that strikes on Hezbollahs military leadership serve multiple purposes: deterrence, punishment, and pressure on the Lebanese government to control Hezbollahs military growth.

The central concern remains Iran, he concluded, stressing that Israel must make a decisive choice between military escalation and diplomatic engagement.

Author: Benjamin Carter