Netanyahu unaware of Trump's plans to begin talks with Iran
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated at a cabinet meeting that he was unaware of Donald Trump’s intention to announce the beginning of talks with Iran. The announcement of a forthcoming diplomatic move by the US came as a surprise to the Israeli side and triggered a tense reaction in government circles.
In a released video from a closed-door meeting, Netanyahu can be seen visibly restraining his irritation upon hearing from the former US president about plans to engage in dialogue with Tehran. For Israel, which has traditionally promoted a hardline stance against Iran, such news is a serious blow to its strategic expectations.
In recent years, Israel has consistently sought Iran’s international isolation and strongly supported sanctions and military options. Potential negotiations between Washington and Tehran run counter to these objectives, reducing the likelihood of a force-based solution and increasing the risk of reshaping the regional balance.
Even preliminary US diplomatic moves could shift the course of Middle East policy. As a country directly involved in the confrontation with Iran, Israel may find itself sidelined from key negotiation processes, weakening its influence on the future architecture of regional security.
Nevertheless, Israeli officials have so far refrained from directly criticizing Washington’s actions. Domestically, however, there are growing concerns that Trump’s initiative may be seen by Iran as a sign of weakening pressure, strengthening its position in regional conflicts.
Thus, the decision to open talks marks a new chapter in the Iran issue — while also increasing tensions between key allies, particularly in matters of security and strategic cooperation.
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