Netanyahu Concedes Loss on Iran, Urges Vigilance on Nuclear Deal

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu urged the world to be vigilant on Iran’s adherence to a recently signed nuclear deal, showing resignation to the global embrace of the Islamic Republic.

Netanyahu muted the usually aggressive rhetoric he delivers at the annual session of the United Nations General Assembly -- in 2012 he held up a drawing of a ticking bomb -- and instead called on governments to enforce the multinational agreement reached between Iran and six world powers in July "with a little more rigor."

“Make sure that the inspectors actually inspect,” Netanyahu said on Thursday. “Make sure that the snapback sanctions actually snap back. Make sure that Iran’s violations aren’t swept under the Persian rug.”

Israel has staunchly opposed any rapprochement between the U.S. and Iran, with the prime minister leading a campaign against easing international sanctions against the Islamic Republic in exchange for curbs on its nuclear program. Such Israeli efforts failed after the accord survived a 60-day U.S. Congressional review last month.

Netanyahu also sought to mend his relationship with U.S. President Barack Obama after ties were strained earlier this year over the nuclear deal.

U.S. Alliance

“But in Israel, we never forget one thing, we never forget that the most important partner that Israel has had, has always been and will always be the United States of America,” Netanyahu said. “The alliance between Israel and the United States is unshakable.”

Netanyahu also offered to move the Middle East peace process forward, declaring that he is "prepared to immediately resume direct negotiations with the Palestinian Authority without any pre-conditions whatsoever."

Netanyahu added that it was unfortunate Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas on Wednesday said in his UN address that the Palestinian people are not bound by agreements signed with Israel.