Trump Urges Netanyahu to Pause Iran Strikes as Nuclear Talks Intensify

President Donald Trump confirmed Wednesday that he advised Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to hold off on any plans to strike Iran’s nuclear facilities while delicate nuclear negotiations continue. "I was clear," Trump told reporters, "I don’t think it’s the right move." His focus, he emphasized, is on securing a diplomatic deal to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons.

Tensions flared after reports surfaced that Netanyahu considered targeting Iran’s nuclear sites, a move that could derail ongoing talks. This comes amid strained relations between the two leaders, compounded by Israel’s aggressive campaign against Hamas in Gaza, which enjoys Iran’s backing. Israel’s threats to escalate the conflict directly to Tehran have raised international alarm.

Iran’s foreign minister, in a letter to the U.N. Security Council, warned of "catastrophic consequences" if Israel attacks its nuclear infrastructure, holding the U.S. partly responsible. Meanwhile, Netanyahu’s office dismissed claims of planned strikes as "fake news." Trump, however, hinted at a different story, suggesting progress in U.S.-Iran talks. "We’ve had some very good discussions," he said, teasing possible breakthroughs soon.

As Trump prepares for a historic Middle East tour, the balancing act between diplomacy and regional tensions remains precarious. The world watches to see if cooler heads—or calculated risks—prevail.