In breaking developments in U.S.-Middle East diplomacy involving former President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. In a candid exchange with reporters on Wednesday, former President Trump confirmed that he advised Netanyahu against launching military action on Iran, warning it could jeopardize sensitive nuclear negotiations underway at the time between the U.S. and Tehran.
When asked directly if he issued a warning, Trump responded, “Well, I’d like to be honest. Yes, I did. Next question, please?” However, he later softened the tone of his remarks, clarifying, “It’s not a warning. I said, ‘I don’t think it’s appropriate.’ We’re having very good discussions with them, and I don’t think it’s appropriate right now.”
Trump’s comments came on the heels of an Axios report that revealed behind-the-scenes dialogue between the former president and Netanyahu. The report indicated that Israeli officials were actively preparing for possible strikes on Iran’s nuclear sites in the event negotiations broke down — preparations that drew U.S. concern.
During his first term, Trump famously withdrew the U.S. from the 2015 Iran nuclear agreement — known as the JCPOA — which had lifted sanctions on Iran in exchange for restrictions on its nuclear development. But in recent months, he’s adopted a more nuanced position, signaling openness to a civilian nuclear program in Iran, as long as it does not lead to weapons development.
Despite long-standing tension with Tehran, Trump expressed confidence in the ongoing dialogue, telling reporters Wednesday, “We’re doing very well with Iran.”
This latest revelation highlights the complex diplomatic balancing act the U.S. has long-faced between supporting Israeli security concerns and maintaining channels for negotiation with Iran. It also offers a rare glimpse into the private counsel exchanged between two world leaders whose alliance has often appeared rock-solid in public.
No official response yet from Prime Minister Netanyahu’s office, but analysts suggest Trump’s remarks could spark renewed debate inside Israel about its military posture toward Iran.
We’ll continue to follow the latest developments and bring you updates as the situation evolves.
Reporting by Carl Montel.
