Netanyahu ally: Diplomacy won’t work with Iran

JERUSALEM: A powerful partner of Israel’s prime minister says sanctions and negotiations will not stop Iran from pursuing its disputed nuclear program.

Former Foreign Minister Avigdor Lieberman says North Korea’s nuclear test was an “obvious example” of diplomacy failing to curb a nuclear program.

Lieberman told Army Radio on Wednesday that “anyone who thinks sanctions or negotiations will stop Iran is wrong.”

Iran, like North Korea, is under stiff sanctions and negotiations with the West over its nuclear program have stalled.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu often hints about a possible strike on Iran’s nuclear facilities.

Lieberman stepped down from his post two months ago after he was indicted for breach of trust in a fraud and money-laundering case. But he remains a powerful lawmaker and Netanyahu’s top political ally.