President Donald Trump confirmed he asked Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu not to launch military action against Iran, as the U.S. pushes for a diplomatic resolution in ongoing nuclear talks.
Trump said the request came during a recent call with Netanyahu, explaining, “I told him this would be very inappropriate to do right now because we’re very close to a solution.” He stressed the U.S. is pursuing a strong, verifiable deal with Iran to avoid further violence and loss of life.
The New York Times had earlier reported concerns among U.S. officials that Israel might strike Iran’s nuclear facilities with little notice, potentially disrupting negotiations.
Talks remain stalled over uranium enrichment. U.S. officials insist Iran must eliminate enrichment, while Tehran calls that a red line. Iranian sources told Reuters they might pause enrichment and convert enriched stock for civilian use — but only if the U.S. unfreezes billions in Iranian assets and recognizes Iran’s right to civilian nuclear development.
Iran has denied seeking nuclear weapons but continues to enrich uranium to levels with no peaceful application, limit international inspections, and expand missile capabilities. Western diplomats remain skeptical of a breakthrough, and Israel remains wary of any interim deal that allows Iran to retain nuclear infrastructure.
Trump’s administration has resumed its “maximum pressure” campaign since January, reimposing sanctions and warning of military action if talks fail. Iranian leaders, facing internal economic turmoil and regional instability, reportedly see a deal as their best option to prevent further domestic unrest and global isolation.
