A former Israeli ambassador to the U.S. told Newsmax on Friday that Israel should consider escalating pressure on Iran by targeting key economic assets, arguing that current military operations may not be sufficient to bring Tehran to the negotiating table.
On "American Agenda," Danny Ayalon praised the close coordination between Israel and the U.S., particularly in military operations in Iran.
"We are very proud to fight shoulder to shoulder with our best friends and allies, the United States," Ayalon said, highlighting the role of airpower in degrading Iran's missile and weapons capabilities.
Call to 'double down'
Ayalon said the campaign has focused largely on weakening Iran's military infrastructure but suggested further steps may be needed, given what he called the regime's unwillingness to negotiate.
"I believe that since the Iranians are so intransigent ... maybe we have to double down," he said.
He argued that a more aggressive approach should include targeting Iran's economic lifelines, particularly its oil sector.
Focus on oil infrastructure
Ayalon pointed to Kharg Island — a hub for Iranian oil exports — as a strategic target, saying a large share of the country's oil shipments pass through the site.
"Doubling down is to really take out their sources of income," he said.
He added that strikes on power plants and other critical infrastructure could further increase pressure on Iran's leadership.
Pressure vs. diplomacy
Ayalon said he believes such measures could force Tehran to reconsider its position and return to negotiations.
At the same time, he criticized Iran's leadership, accusing it of prioritizing regime survival over the well-being of Iranian citizens.
"What we see here is such a barbaric regime that does not care at all about the population," he said. "They would rather destroy the entire country than surrender."
His comments come amid ongoing debate over how best to confront Iran's nuclear program and regional activities, with some policymakers advocating continued diplomacy while others argue for increased military and economic pressure.
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Solange Reyner ✉
Solange Reyner is a writer and editor for Newsmax. She has more than 15 years in the journalism industry reporting and covering news, sports and politics.
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