Vigilance Amid Transition

In a recent exclusive interview with Fox News Digital, Israel’s U.N. Ambassador Danny Danon reiterated his nation’s vigilance in the face of potential threats from Iran, especially during the sensitive transition period of the Trump administration. Danon cautioned Tehran against any aggressive maneuvers, asserting that an attack on Israel would be a critical blunder.

Iran’s Retaliatory Threats

The Israeli ambassador’s warnings come in light of provocative statements made by Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, who vowed retaliation against Israel following an airstrike on Iranian assets in Syria on October 26. Araghchi declared in Iranian media that Iran would respond to Israeli actions “in our time and in the way we see fit,” a sentiment that reflects the heightened tensions in the region.

Israel’s Response: A Firm Directive

In response to Araghchi’s threats, Danon delivered a firm message: “I would advise him not to challenge us. We have already demonstrated our capabilities and proven their vulnerabilities.” He emphasized that Israel has the operational capacity to target any location in Iran, highlighting Tehran’s awareness of this reality. “If they think they can exploit the current transitional period, they are mistaken. We are keeping our eyes open and are prepared for any scenario,” he added with conviction.

The U.S. Role in Confronting Iranian Aggression

Danon also underscored the significance of the incoming U.S. administration’s policy towards Iran, outlining it as one of the key challenges faced by the new leadership. “For the new administration, I believe the most critical issue will be addressing Iranian aggression and the threat posed by the regime. The U.S. must resume a leadership role on this matter,” he stated, asserting the need for a unified front against shared enemies.

Common Interests: Israel and the U.S.

Highlighting the interconnected nature of geopolitical threats, Danon identified common adversaries such as Hezbollah, Hamas, and the Houthi movement as enemies not only of Israel but also of the United States. “These are not only enemies of Israel but also of the United States. Americans should understand and support what we are doing now,” Danon urged, calling for continued U.S. engagement in the region.

The U.N. Security Council and Humanitarian Imperatives

The backdrop of Danon’s remarks was further colored by recent events at the United Nations, where the U.S. vetoed a draft resolution proposed by Algeria aimed at establishing an “immediate, unconditional, and permanent ceasefire” between Israel and Hamas. Danon criticized the resolution for failing to include crucial stipulations regarding the release of hostages held by Hamas in Gaza.

“It was a shameful resolution because it didn’t tie the ceasefire to the release of hostages,” Danon commented, expressing gratitude for the U.S. veto. “It sent a clear message that the United States stands firmly with its strongest ally, Israel.” He expressed concern over many ambassadors advocating for a ceasefire while ignoring the plight of 101 hostages. “We will not forget them. We will continue fighting until every single one of them is brought home,” he affirmed.