We met with Ambassador of the State of Israel to the Czech Republic Amir Weissbrod two weeks after the first U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran. The interview therefore partly focused on the then-current developments, but we also discussed Tomáš Garrigue Masaryk and his influence on bilateral relations.
What was the main objective of Israel’s strike on Iran? It was described in the media as a form of prevention. Prevention against what exactly, and why at this moment?
Our main goal was to prevent an existential threat, both in relation to the nuclear issue and the ballistic missile program. Iran continues to pursue the restoration of its nuclear facilities, and it is important to emphasize that enriched uranium remains in its possession. As for ballistic missiles, Israel has long maintained that this issue must be addressed together with the nuclear program as part of any negotiations with Iran. The timing of our recent action was driven by Iran’s intention to move all relevant infrastructure deep underground, thereby creating a degree of immunity, while simultaneously expanding missile production from dozens to hundreds per month. Our aim is to protect our national security, but the implications go far beyond Israel’s borders. This threat affects the broader Middle East and other regions, including Europe. Iran has already targeted Cyprus, Turkey, Azerbaijan, and other countries, clearly demonstrating the seriousness and reach of this destabilizing capability.
Is regime change in Iran also part of Israel’s objective?
We have framed this objective more cautiously. We have stated that our intention is to create conditions that could enable such a change. At the same time, we fully recognize that any real change must ultimately come from the Iranian people themselves – not from Israel or the United States. Our immediate focus is on the Iranian military threat and the need to stop it at its source. If regime change were to follow as a consequence, it would be a positive outcome. However, it is not something we can impose. We can only shape the environment in which such a development might become possible.
What is your view of a potential successor to Ayatollah Ali Khamenei?
I do not think it is a secret that for us, for the United States, and likely for others, this is not the type of successor we would wish to see in power. He is regarded as an extremely radical figure. Ultimately, we are striving for a fundamental change in the region – one that ensures long-term security and stability for us and for the entire Middle East. No one wants to face escalation every few months. That is precisely why a more decisive shift is necessary. Sometimes a decisive step is required to establish lasting stability and to prevent such a dangerous regime from continuing to build capabilities that could threaten our existence and the stability of the entire region.
Let us turn to bilateral relations. How do you feel in Czechia, and how would you describe public sentiment toward Israel?
I feel very comfortable here, and I perceive a strong openness toward Israel, along with a deep appreciation of our shared historical ties. We greatly valued the support the Czech Republic provided during the war. Over the past three months, I have also seen considerable potential to strengthen our relationship beyond already excellent political ties – particularly in the economic and academic spheres. People in Israel view Central Europe as a region that has long shown support for our country. At the same time, I am working to ensure that this support continues in the years ahead. That is why I meet with many young people and try to bring Israel closer to them.
Why did you choose Czechia for your posting?
I wanted to work more intensively on the bilateral level in a country where I believe such cooperation has long-term value. I was looking for a mid-sized but significant country that is a true friend of Israel. At the same time, I was interested in focusing on strengthening bilateral relations in areas such as the economy, academia, and beyond, since my previous roles had been purely political.
Which sectors offer the greatest potential for cooperation with Israeli companies?
I believe these include healthcare and medical technologies, artificial intelligence, IT more broadly, security, and the defense industry. The Czech Republic should develop more startups and diversify its industrial base in the face of global competition. And I must not forget tourism. Although my role is to bring more Czech visitors to Israel, I will also try to support the growth of Israeli tourism here. The Czech Republic is the third most visited destination for Israeli tourists worldwide, and last year this number increased by 65 percent. However, it is important to expand tourism beyond Prague to other regions. These are the areas where we can make progress. I have also seen strong interest from Israeli companies that want to establish joint production here or view Czechia as a hub for their European operations.
Can Czechia do anything to become more attractive for Israeli companies?
In my view, you should pursue a stronger marketing strategy and reinforce your profile as a European hub full of talented people. In tourism, I would launch a broader campaign focused not only on Prague, but on the regions. I believe that the overall conditions created after the war – where our people feel welcome and, above all, safe in the Czech Republic – open up new opportunities.
The history of our bilateral relations dates back to T. G. Masaryk and 1927. Is his legacy still alive today?
That is true. In two years, it will be one hundred years since his visit, and we would like to mark the anniversary with events that recall and revive his legacy. There is a strong foundation to Czech-Israeli relations, but we must continue to develop it and make it accessible to younger generations. And by the way, if you look at Israel, you will find President Masaryk’s name in almost every city – squares or streets bear his name.
You have been in Czechia for more than six months and have already traveled extensively. Is visiting different regions important to you?
Yes. I believe my role is not to focus solely on Prague, even though it is the capital. Diplomats sometimes tend to remain only in the capital, and I consider that a mistake. To truly understand a country and its people, one must explore it as a whole. That is why I have tried to dedicate part of my time to traveling across the country. I would also like to strengthen ties between municipalities in Israel and the Czech Republic, as I believe this supports direct relationships and exchange. Traveling across the regions is therefore an important part of my work.
What are your plans for the coming weeks and months?
I will continue working on projects aimed at deepening cooperation between our countries – for example, we are planning a major Israeli-Czech academic conference this year. I would also like to focus more on economic issues. The first months are mainly about meeting people; concrete ideas follow afterward – and several are already taking shape. Of course, I will remain in contact with government representatives, but I will also try to engage younger generations, including through meetings with students at secondary schools and universities.
CV BOX
Amir Weissbrod (born April 16, 1968) has served as Ambassador of the State of Israel to the Czech Republic since September 2025.
He has worked as a diplomat at the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs for more than thirty years, holding a range of positions. His most recent role was Deputy Director General for the United Nations and International Organizations (2023–2025).
He also served as Ambassador of Israel to the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan (2018–2021).
He specializes in Middle East and United Nations affairs and has published several articles on the subject. He is the author of the professional publication Turabi: Spokesman of Radical Islam (1999).
He is married and has three children.
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