Iran 'definitely' has chemical weapons despite nuclear setbacks, Netanyahu warns

What Happened

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in an interview with Newsmax on Tuesday, claimed that Iran 'definitely' possesses chemical weapons, citing this as an additional threat beyond its nuclear ambitions. He stated that during Operation Roaring Lion, Israeli forces destroyed key components of Iran's nuclear program, including centrifuges, factories, and associated facilities, and killed 20 of its top nuclear scientists. Netanyahu characterized the operation as having pushed back Iran's nuclear capabilities considerably but warned that the regime could reconstitute its program if left unchecked, comparing it to a cancer that might recur. He also framed US involvement in the conflict as essential, alleging that Iran's development of nuclear-armed ballistic missiles would endanger every American, which prompted President Donald Trump to act.

Key Actors

Why It Matters

Netanyahu's allegations introduce a new dimension to the Israel–Iran shadow war by publicly claiming Iran possesses chemical weapons, potentially shaping international discourse and legitimizing further preemptive strikes. The assertion comes as Israel seeks to solidify US backing and maintain a narrative of existential threat, while the claimed degradation of Iran's nuclear program may influence proliferation concerns and negotiation dynamics. The framing of Iran's oppression and regional proxies reinforces Israel's broader regional strategy to delegitimize the Tehran regime.

Watch For

Official responses from Iran or international watchdogs (e.g., OPCW) to the chemical weapons claim; IAEA updates on Iran's nuclear status following alleged Israeli strikes; any new US or Israeli military actions tied to the stated threats; further public statements by Netanyahu or Trump reinforcing or walking back the assertions.