Netanyahu's visit to Washington and the unprecedented closeness of his relationship with President Trump are a vital opportunity for Israel to shape the U.S.' negotiations with Iran. For its national interest, it is a chance Israel cannot afford to squander, as any agreement between the U.S. and Iran must place hard limits on Iran's missile capabilities and support for its terrorist network.
In contrast to unfounded accusations, Iran's nuclear program falls squarely within its rights under the Non-Proliferation Treaty. A peaceful resolution to the current impasse, therefore, can only be achieved through dialogue and respect, as these, rather than threats or coercion, are the basis for reaching a lasting agreement built on mutual interest and understanding.
Trump's approach balances a clear preference for a negotiated nuclear agreement with a firm reminder that American strength underwrites diplomacy. By insisting talks with Iran continue while preserving other options, he signals that peace is achievable through reason, but that the world's most powerful military stands ready to act if Tehran refuses a responsible deal.
Trump is not an independent player in these talks, and is very much in alignment with Netanyahu. This risks repeating the catastrophic pattern of wars sold as urgent and unavoidable, from Iraq to Libya, with consequences that spiral far beyond their stated aims. By pairing threats of force against Iran with continued backing for Israel's war in Gaza, both leaders appear poised to expand regional conflict rather than pursue the diplomacy they claim to desire.
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