Prime Minister Netanyahu at a Western Wall Chanukah ceremony. Photo: GPO.

Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, continued his criticism of the recent deal made between world powers and Iran over the country’s nuclear weapons program.

Speaking at a Chanukah ceremony at the Great Synagogue in Rome Sunday, during a state visit to Italy, Netanyahu lamented what he said was a rapid weakening of the international sanctions regime against the Islamic Republic.

“As we have warned, and I say this with regret, the sanctions regime has started to weaken and very quickly. If tangible steps are not taken soon, it is liable to collapse and the efforts of years will vanish without anything in exchange,” the Prime Minister said.

Citing the historic Maccabee warriors, Netanyahu promised that his government would take all necessary steps to prevent Iran from maintaining the capability to build nuclear weapons.

“I tell you and promise in the spirit of the Maccabees, we will not allow Iran to receive a military nuclear capability,” he said.

Appearing to be responding to criticism leveled against him by former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert earlier Sunday, Netanyahu said that he would not be silenced in his campaign for stronger action against Iran’s nuclear program.

“In contrast to others, when I see that interests vital to the security of Israel’s citizens are in danger, I will not be silent,” he said. “It is very easy to be silent. It is very easy to receive a pat on the shoulder from the international community, to bow one’s head, but I am committed to the security of my people. I am committed to the future of my state and in contrast to periods in the past, we have a loud and clear voice among the nations and we will sound it in time in order to warn of the danger.”