Lawmaker says a nuclear strike on Gaza risks fallout in Israel

A US Republican lawmaker warned on June 16th that a nuclear strike on Gaza would spread a fallout to Israel, Middle East Eye via CNN reported. He said Israeli hostages would also perish if Gaza faced a nuclear strike.

During a CNN interview, congressman Randy Fine criticised the idea of nuking Gaza for the destruction it would bring to Israel.

Fine, a committed Zionist, stated: “Nuking Gaza would be a terrible idea—the fallout would drift into Israel.” He added: “It would kill the hostages.” When questioned about harm to civilians, including women and children, Fine responded: “War is a messy thing.”

In May 2025, the congressman told Fox News that Israel should adopt a World War II strategy. He declared that the US used nuclear weapons during that period, to make Japan accept an unconditional surrender. Fine asserted that engaging in talks with the Palestinians was not a feasible option.

In a statement he said: “There is something deeply wrong with this culture and it needs to be defeated.” He stressed that only massive military power can stop the conflict.

The congressman’s push for a military approach is a direct contrast to the ongoing diplomatic efforts in the region. As tensions rise, Iran’s recent talks with Egypt aim to address security concerns and the humanitarian crisis through dialogue.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on June 1st arrived in Cairo for talks with senior Egyptian officials, according to The National on June 2nd. Maghrebi reported on June 2nd that the agenda includes Iran-Egypt ties, the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, and Tehran’s nuclear programme. The visit came at the request of Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty.

US authorities have said Iran could advance uranium to weapons-grade in just two weeks if it decided to develop a nuclear weapon. Since April 2025, the US and Iran have engaged in indirect discussions, with Oman acting as an intermediary.

Middle East Eye via CNN, Maghrebi.org, The National