Trump Insists Iran Nuclear Talks Must Continue After Meeting Netanyahu
WASHINGTON — U.S. President Donald Trump urged the continuation of nuclear negotiations with Iran following a lengthy private meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House. The discussions, which lasted nearly three hours, focused on diplomatic efforts to address Iran’s nuclear programme amid ongoing regional tensions and recent indirect talks between Washington and Tehran.
In a statement on social media after the meeting, Trump said he insisted to Netanyahu that negotiations with Iran must continue, noting that no definitive agreement was reached but stressing that diplomacy remains the preferred path forward. He urged that the talks should carry on “to see whether or not a deal can be consummated,” and said that if a successful deal were possible, that outcome would be welcomed.
Trump’s comments highlight a delicate balance in U.S. policy: while promoting continued talks with Iran to curb its nuclear ambitions, he has not ruled out other outcomes if diplomacy fails. He also referenced past U.S. military action when previous negotiations faltered, underlining the seriousness with which Washington views the issue.
Prime Minister Netanyahu, meanwhile, underscored Israel’s security concerns, particularly regarding ballistic missiles and Tehran’s regional activities, and emphasised the need for any agreement to address those broader threats. Both leaders agreed to maintain close coordination, even as they navigate their differing priorities in talks with Iran.
The latest meeting comes amid cautious optimism following indirect U.S.–Iran talks held in Oman, although Tehran has so far stuck to its demands that negotiations be confined to the nuclear programme. The push to keep diplomatic channels open reflects ongoing efforts to avoid escalation in the Middle East while seeking a verifiable path to limit Iran’s nuclear capabilities.
Key Points:
- Trump insisted nuclear talks with Iran must continue and said this remains the preferred route.
- The meeting with Netanyahu ended without a definitive deal, but both leaders agreed to maintain coordination.
- Trump balanced diplomatic emphasis with warnings about consequences if talks fail.
- Tehran has held indirect negotiations with U.S. officials, but key differences remain.
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