President Donald Trump reportedly urged Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in a recent phone call to avoid taking steps that might undermine sensitive negotiations with Iran, according to a report from Axios that cites both a White House official and a source with knowledge of the conversation.
The article suggests that Trump and other senior American officials are growing increasingly wary that Israel might carry out a military strike against Iran’s nuclear infrastructure if the diplomatic talks break down. One insider noted that Israeli leaders believe the timeline to carry out such an operation effectively is closing quickly.
Trump is said to have made it clear during the call that he wants the diplomatic channel with Iran to remain unobstructed. “He doesn’t want anything to impede the potential for a deal with Iran,” the White House official said. The President acknowledged that there are other paths available but reiterated his desire to pursue diplomacy first.
In the aftermath of the phone call, Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem traveled to Jerusalem to personally reinforce Trump’s message to Netanyahu. In an interview with Fox News, Noem said the conversation was “candid and direct,” and she stressed the importance of solidarity and patience while negotiations move forward. She noted that Trump intends to make a decision in a matter of days.
When asked for a response, the office of the Israeli Prime Minister chose not to issue a statement.
Meanwhile, several top Israeli officials, including Netanyahu’s close adviser Ron Dermer and Mossad Director David Barnea, flew to Washington for strategic meetings related to Iran. Their itinerary included discussions with Vice President Vance and CIA Director John Ratcliffe.
In parallel diplomatic efforts, White House envoy Steve Witkoff met with Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in Rome on Friday. Trump later commented that the discussions reflected “real progress” and hinted that significant updates could follow soon.
{Matzav.com}
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