Trump Warned Netanyahu to Hold off on Iran Strike for US Nuclear Talks/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ President Trump confirmed Wednesday he advised Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu to postpone a potential strike on Iran. Trump cited progress in nuclear negotiations between the U.S. and Tehran as the reason. While tensions escalate in Gaza, Trump’s envoy is preparing new proposals to deescalate the conflict with Hamas.
Trump and Iran Quick Look
- Trump says he asked Netanyahu to hold off on Iran attack
- Cites progress toward a new U.S.-Iran nuclear agreement
- UN nuclear chief says negotiations are ongoing but uncertain
- Trump tempers criticism of Netanyahu amid Gaza conflict
- Envoy Witkoff drafting new ceasefire proposal for Israel-Hamas war
Deep Look
Trump Warns Against Iran Strike to Buy Time for Diplomacy
President Donald Trump revealed on Wednesday that he personally urged Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to refrain from launching a strike on Iran, in order to allow more time for the U.S. to finalize a potential nuclear agreement with Tehran.
“I told him this would be inappropriate to do right now because we’re very close to a solution,” Trump told reporters during a White House event.
The comments signal a renewed push from the Trump administration to resolve tensions with Iran through diplomacy. The urgency comes as Iran’s nuclear capabilities continue to advance and international pressure mounts for de-escalation.
UN Nuclear Watchdog Cautious but Encouraged
Rafael Mariano Grossi, head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), acknowledged Wednesday that negotiations between Iran and the U.S. are ongoing, but emphasized that “the jury is still out” regarding their success.
Still, Grossi viewed continued dialogue as a hopeful sign, especially in light of Iran’s recent acceleration of uranium enrichment.
Trump Downplays Rift With Netanyahu Over Gaza Strategy
Despite increasing global criticism of Israel’s military campaign in Gaza, Trump dismissed speculation of growing friction with Netanyahu.
“We’re dealing with the whole situation in Gaza. It’s a very nasty situation, a very nasty fight,” Trump said. “October 7 was a horrible day… people aren’t going to forget that.”
Trump acknowledged the humanitarian disaster unfolding in Gaza but reaffirmed his support for Israeli security concerns. He also noted ongoing U.S. efforts to deliver food and aid to Gazan civilians.
New Peace Proposal Coming for Israel-Hamas Conflict
Steve Witkoff, President Trump’s special envoy to the Middle East, confirmed that the administration is finalizing a new “term sheet” aimed at ending hostilities between Israel and Hamas. He expressed cautious optimism that the document, expected to be delivered later today, could help advance a long-term peace resolution.
“I think that we are on the precipice of sending out a new term sheet,” Witkoff said. “The president is going to review it, and I have some very good feelings about getting to a long-term resolution.”
Context: 600 Days Since October 7 Attacks
The renewed discussions come 600 days after the October 7, 2023, Hamas attacks that killed over 1,200 people and triggered Israel’s ongoing offensive in Gaza. Israeli operations have since drawn global condemnation for their impact on civilians, while Hamas has continued to hold dozens of hostages.
As of now, there is no indication that either side is preparing to pause military operations, even amid new diplomatic overtures from the Trump administration.
You must Register or Login to post a comment.