Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad said his country would not launch an attack on Israel or any other country.
“Iran will not attack any country,” Ahmadinejad told The Associated Press on Monday.
Israeli and U.S. officials, as well as Jewish organizations, have warned that a nuclear-armed Iran would pose an unacceptable threat to Israel’s security. They point to Ahmadinejad’s assertion that Israel should be wiped off the map and Iran’s support for Palestinian terrorist groups.
Ahmadinejad described Israel’s reported attack against Syria as “an aimless policy in a way, just a show of power, and has nothing to do with Iran.” He referred to Israel as the “Zionist regime” and not by its name, the AP reported.
During an appearance at Columbia University later on Monday, the Iranian leader said his country does not desire war with any nation.
“We are friends with the Jewish people,” he said.
Help ensure Jewish news remains accessible to all. Your donation to the Jewish Telegraphic Agency powers the trusted journalism that has connected Jewish communities worldwide for more than 100 years. With your help, JTA can continue to deliver vital news and insights. Donate today.
