Netanyahu says Iran's nuclear program must be stopped

PLEASE NOTE, THIS EDIT CONTAINS CONVERTED 4:3 MATERIAL

The Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says Iran must be stopped, before it can build nuclear weapons.

(SOUNDBITE) (English) ISRAELI PRIME MINISTER BENJAMIN NETANYAHU, SAYING:

"We are determined to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons. We leave all options on the table and containment is definitely not an option. The Jewish State will not allow those who seek our destruction to possess the means to achieve that goal. A nuclear armed Iran must be stopped."

Earlier on Monday, Netanyahu assured President Barack Obama that Israel has not made any decision on attacking Iran's nuclear sites.

But the Israeli PM gave no sign of backing away from possible military action, when he spoke to the influential pro-Israel lobby AIPAC in Washington..

(SOUNDBITE) (English) ISRAELI PRIME MINISTER BENJAMIN NETANYAHU, SAYING:

"That is why Israel must always have the ability to defend itself, by itself, against any threats. My friends, we deeply appreciate the great alliance between our two countries, but when it comes to Israel's survival, we must always remain the masters of our fate."

While the United States and Washington share a commitment to prevent Iran from becoming nuclear-armed, Israel sees a threat to its existence from Tehran's atomic ambitions.

Iranian officials say their nuclear program has only peaceful purposes.

Sophia Soo, Reuters.