Iran nuclear talks have entered a crucial phase as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu prepares to meet US President Donald Trump at the White House on Wednesday, amid growing tensions across the Middle East and intensified diplomatic efforts to curb Tehran’s nuclear ambitions.
During the high-profile meeting, Netanyahu is expected to urge Trump to push for a comprehensive agreement that not only halts Iran’s uranium enrichment program but also limits its ballistic missile development and cuts support for regional militant groups including Hamas and Hezbollah.
Before departing for Washington, Netanyahu stated that he would present Israel’s strategic perspective on the core principles guiding the negotiations. He emphasized that any agreement must address both nuclear capabilities and Iran’s regional influence.
Iran has signaled its readiness to restrict parts of its nuclear program in return for international sanctions relief. However, it has firmly rejected demands related to missile limitations and its backing of proxy organizations. Ahead of the meeting, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian warned that Tehran would not submit to what he described as excessive foreign pressure.
Netanyahu’s visit marks his sixth trip to the United States since Trump returned to office, making him the most frequent world leader to hold talks with the American president during this period. A close ally of Trump, Netanyahu has consistently labeled Iran as a major security threat to Israel and has called for strong international measures to counter Tehran’s regional influence.
According to Netanyahu’s office, the prime minister believes that any lasting agreement must include strict limits on ballistic missile development and an end to Iranian support for armed groups destabilizing the Middle East.
Following his arrival in Washington, Netanyahu held meetings with Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff and senior adviser Jared Kushner, who briefed him on the first round of recent discussions with Iranian officials.
The diplomatic engagement comes as the United States increases its military presence in the region. Trump has warned Tehran of potential military action if a deal is not reached. He also confirmed that Washington is considering deploying an additional aircraft carrier strike group to the Middle East.
Speaking to the media, Trump stated that Iran is eager to reach an agreement, adding that a strong deal would mean no nuclear weapons and no missile expansion, while still leaving the door open for diplomacy.
Source : BBC News
