The Brief No. 72
15 March 2026
When asked whether Israel will resort to using a nuclear bomb against Iran, President Trump said that Israel “will not do that”.
Trump’s comment is extremely concerning, it is also diplomatically damaging to Israel:
- Israel has always denied that it has nuclear weapons. Trump’s comment exposes Israel and confirms that it does indeed have nuclear weapons.
- Moreover, Trump and Netanyahu have repeatedly argued against “Iran acquiring a nuclear weapon”. Yet Israel, a country that continues to commit a genocide in Gaza has nuclear weapons. According to the United Nations (UN) Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory; including East Jerusalem, and Israel; Israel has committed genocide against Palestinians in the Gaza Strip.
- Trump has also called upon other countries - particularly those who are using the Strait of Hurmuz to import oil and gas from the Gulf - to help the US in securing the movement of ships in the Strait of Hurmuz. Trump’s comment suggests that the US and Israel are not winning the war against Iran
Must we believe Trump or take what he says with a pinch of salt?
Afrasid is available for commentary and analysis