The Israeli Prime Minister-designate, Benjamin Netanyahu, said that the biggest threat against Israel is the Iranian nuclear program, noting the importance of “continuing the Zionist project and fighting this threat without end.”

During a farewell party for the head of the Mossad intelligence service, Yossi Cohen, Netanyahu says that he spoke to the US president 40 years ago about the dangers of Iran’s possession of nuclear weapons, adding: “Regardless of whether or not we can reach an agreement with Iran, we will continue to do everything we can to thwart Tehran’s obtaining of nuclear weapons, because Iran is different from other countries that possess nuclear weapons, and for this reason, containment is not an option under consideration. ”

He added, “If we are forced to choose between friction with our great friend the United States and removing the existential threat, the latter will prevail. But I hope this thing does not happen.”

Netanyahu addressed a speech to the new Mossad chief, David Barnea, saying: “You must do everything to ensure that Iran does not acquire nuclear weapons in any case.”

The Israeli Prime Minister described the leaving office of the Mossad chief as one of the best heads of the intelligence establishment ever.

Cohen said during the ceremony that Israel managed to “penetrate the heart of Iran” during the five years he spent at the helm of the institution, according to what was reported by the “Times of Israel” newspaper.

Cohen, 61, was chosen to head the Mossad in 2016, after serving as Netanyahu’s national security advisor.