Regional Nuclear Concerns Rise as Israel Monitors Egypt and Turkey

TEL AVIV – A senior Israeli official has urged the government of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to remain vigilant regarding potential nuclear ambitions in the region, specifically citing Egypt and Turkey as countries warranting close monitoring. The concerns come amid ongoing tensions surrounding Iran’s nuclear program and the possibility of escalating conflict.

Growing Regional Tensions

Yuval Steinitz, chairman of the board of directors of Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, emphasized the need for Israel to closely observe developments in neighboring countries. This assessment was made as negotiations between the United States and Iran are set to resume in Geneva on February 17, 2026 . There are ongoing concerns about a potential U.S. Military strike against Iran.

Concerns Over Nuclear Development

Steinitz stated, “Countries like Israel have everything to worry about, and we must closely monitor other countries in the Middle East, such as Egypt and Turkey, to make sure they are not secretly developing nuclear weapons.” This statement reflects a long-held Israeli position that a nuclear-armed Iran poses a greater threat than its current ballistic missile arsenal.

Israel’s Defense Strategy

Steinitz expressed a preference for facing the threat of ballistic missiles over a nuclear weapon, stating, “I would rather live under the threat of 10,000 ballistic missiles than under the threat of one nuclear bomb.” He also highlighted Israel’s confidence in its layered air defense system to intercept any potential attacks.

U.S. Role in Regional Security

The official anticipates a more significant operational role for the United States in future conflicts, pointing to the presence of a U.S. Air base near Iran and an aircraft carrier capable of targeting enemy missile systems.

Recent Diplomatic Developments

Recent diplomatic efforts have seen Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan actively involved in regional discussions, including a summit in Egypt aimed at supporting a ceasefire in Gaza. Although, tensions remain, as evidenced by reports that Erdogan took steps to prevent Prime Minister Netanyahu’s participation in the summit . There were also reports that Erdogan delayed his own flight to Egypt after learning of Netanyahu’s potential attendance .

These developments underscore the complex geopolitical landscape of the Middle East and the ongoing concerns surrounding nuclear proliferation and regional stability.