President Trump talks to Netanyahu in Washington on April 7, 2025.
| Published May 28, 2025
US President Donald Trump said Wednesday he had told Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to hold off striking Iran, saying it would be “inappropriate” amid talks on a nuclear deal.
In a significant diplomatic move, President Donald Trump has advised Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to refrain from launching a military strike against Iran, emphasizing the ongoing negotiations aimed at curbing Tehran’s nuclear program. Trump stated that such an action would be “inappropriate” at this juncture, as the United States and Iran are reportedly close to reaching a new nuclear agreement.
The President’s caution comes amid concerns that a preemptive Israeli attack could derail the delicate talks. Trump highlighted that the discussions are progressing well and that a deal could be finalized within weeks, potentially averting conflict and saving lives.
The negotiations, mediated by Oman, have seen five rounds of talks, with a sixth anticipated soon. The proposed agreement aims to limit Iran’s uranium enrichment in exchange for easing U.S. sanctions. While Iran has denied receiving a formal U.S. proposal, discussions continue, and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has confirmed ongoing dialogue with both U.S. and Iranian officials.
Despite the diplomatic efforts, tensions remain high. Iran’s Revolutionary Guard has issued warnings of retaliation against U.S. actions, reflecting the fragile nature of the situation. Nevertheless, the Trump administration remains hopeful that a verifiable agreement can be achieved to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons.
Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian visits Iran’s nuclear achievements exhibition in Tehran, Iran April 9, 2025.via REUTERS
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei speaks during a meeting in Tehran, Iran, May 20, 2025.via REUTERS
The implications of Trump’s warning to Netanyahu not to strike Iran—amid ongoing nuclear talks—are significant for diplomacy, regional stability, and U.S. foreign policy:
1. Preservation of Diplomatic Momentum
Trump’s intervention signals strong U.S. interest in diplomacy over military escalation. It suggests the U.S. sees a near-term opportunity for a nuclear agreement with Iran, and a preemptive Israeli strike could sabotage that.
2. Israel-U.S. Strategic Tensions
While the U.S. and Israel are close allies, Trump’s public admonition exposes potential strategic divergence. Netanyahu’s government may perceive the delay as compromising Israeli security, especially if Iran is seen as stalling or deceiving negotiators.
3. Message to Iran and the Region
By urging restraint, the U.S. is also sending a message to Iran that diplomatic channels are being protected from interference—even from allies. This could foster more trust in the process, or embolden Iran to extract more concessions, depending on its interpretation.
4. Election-Year Diplomacy
With Trump leading diplomacy again, this move likely signals how a future Trump administration might approach Iran—negotiation-focused, yet assertive. It could also affect voter sentiment, especially among Americans concerned with Middle East entanglements.
5. Risk of Escalation Delayed, Not Avoided
A postponed Israeli strike doesn’t eliminate the risk—it merely delays it. If talks collapse, or if Israel perceives insufficient safeguards in any deal, the region could still face conflict, possibly with more international fallout due to diplomatic setbacks.
Overall Takeaway:
Trump’s warning to Netanyahu against striking Iran underscores a pivotal moment where diplomacy is being prioritized over military action. It reflects both the fragility and urgency of nuclear negotiations, the balancing act in U.S.–Israel relations, and the high geopolitical stakes. While the move may buy time for peace, it also highlights how close the region remains to potential conflict—depending on how talks unfold.
SOURCES: NEWSMAX – Trump Cautioned Netanyahu Against Iran Strike to Give US More Time for Nuclear Talks
THE NEW YORK POST – Trump says he told Netanyahu not to bomb Iran with new nuke deal ‘very close’: ‘Don’t think it’s appropriate right now’
AP NEWS – Trump says he warned Netanyahu to hold off on an Iran strike to give US more time for nuclear talks
FRANCE 24 – Trump says warned Netanyahu against striking Iran
AXIOS – Trump cautioned Netanyahu to avoid steps that undermine Iran nuclear talks
