Israel’s foreign minister: Iran’s nuclear bomb delayed by “at least two to three years” amid conflict

Israel’s Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar says Iran’s nuclear bomb development has been delayed by "at least two to three years" due to the ongoing conflict, while expressing doubt about diplomacy as European leaders push for renewed talks with Tehran in Geneva.

In a wide-ranging interview with the German newspaper Bild, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar outlined Israel’s firm stance on Iran’s nuclear ambitions, stating that while a direct military confrontation has caused setbacks to Iran’s nuclear programme, Israel remains unwavering in its goal to neutralise the threat.

"We are committed to doing everything possible to eliminate the danger from Iran’s nuclear programme," Sa’ar said, adding that military pressure has bought the international community critical time.

Sa’ar, however, expressed deep scepticism toward diplomatic efforts. "I don’t really believe in diplomacy with Iran. All previous diplomatic efforts have been unsuccessful," he told Bild. Despite this, European leaders remain optimistic about dialogue.

Top European diplomats—including representatives from the UK, France, and Germany—met with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas on Friday in Geneva. The goal of the meeting was to de-escalate rising tensions and explore pathways to restart negotiations over Iran’s nuclear programme.

Asked whether Israel sees regime change in Tehran as an objective, Sa’ar said such a goal has not been formally adopted. "The Security Cabinet has not yet defined regime change as a goal in this war. At least not yet," he clarified.

The Geneva talks come at a time of heightened tensions across the Middle East, with both Israel and Iran intensifying rhetoric and operations. While the Israeli government remains cautious about setting long-term political goals for the conflict, the international community continues to seek channels for diplomatic resolution.

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