Former president Shimon Peres on Thursday criticized Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for his upcoming speech before the US Congress that was arranged without the knowledge of US President Barack Obama.
Speaking at a memorial ceremony for former prime minister Ariel Sharon in the Negev, Peres said, "Bibi [Netanyahu] can make speeches at any place or date, but when the President of the United States asks him not to come before elections, he must respect that request."
Peres also addressed the tension between Israel and Hezbollah after an attack that killed two IDF soldiers on Wednesday, saying that "both sides understand that there is no choice but to cease their fire."
"The main consideration now must be to lower the flames and not to make speeches," he said.
Netanyahu said at the same ceremony for Sharon that Iran was behind yesterday's attack on IDF vehicles traveling close to the Lebanese border.
"This is the same Iran that is trying to reach an agreement whereby it will be allowed to maintain the ability to develop nuclear weapons. We are resolutely opposed to such an agreement," Netanyahu said.
"We will continue to defend ourselves from all threats both near and far," the prime minister said.
Referring to Sharon by his informal moniker "Arik," Netanyahu said the late former prime minister understood very well the nature of the Iranian regime, and that what Sharon said is still valid today.