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United States President Donald Trump said Wednesday he had warned Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu against launching a military strike on Iran, calling such action inappropriate while nuclear negotiations with Tehran are underway.
"Well, I'd like to be honest, yes I did," Trump told reporters when asked if he had advised Netanyahu not to take military action during a phone call last week. "I said I don't think it's appropriate right now."
He added: "We're having some very good talks with Iran."
Netanyahu has reportedly threatened to target Iran’s main nuclear enrichment sites, a move that could derail the ongoing diplomatic efforts. According to a report by The New York Times, Trump and Netanyahu clashed over the issue during at least one tense conversation, as Israeli officials continued to advocate for a military option despite Washington’s push for a negotiated deal.
The report said Israel had considered launching a strike as early as this month but was deterred after Trump intervened, urging patience while talks continue in hopes of limiting Iran’s nuclear enrichment capabilities.
The United States and Iran have been engaged in indirect nuclear diplomacy for the past two months, with Oman mediating five rounds of talks held in Muscat and Rome.
Uranium enrichment remains the central point of contention. The U.S. is demanding the dismantling of Iran's enrichment program, while Tehran insists it will continue.
Trump has previously warned that military action remains on the table if a new agreement is not reached to replace the 2015 nuclear deal, which Washington abandoned in 2018.
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