Politics in West Asia appears to be heating up once again over the possibility of talks between Iran and the United States. According to media reports, CNN has claimed that Israeli officials fear that U.S. President Donald Trump could strike a deal with Iran that may not fully address Israel’s security concerns.
According to the report, Israel’s biggest concern is that any potential agreement may not include issues related to Iran’s missile program and its regional allied groups. Israeli officials believe that if a deal is reached without completely dismantling Iran’s nuclear program, it would be considered ‘incomplete.
Quoting CNN, an Israeli official said that Tel Aviv fears Trump could grow tired of prolonged negotiations and become willing to make ‘any kind of deal,’ even if it requires major last-minute concessions.
The report also claims that coordination is ongoing between the United States and Israel regarding possible military action against Iran. This reportedly includes discussions about strikes on Iran’s energy facilities and key infrastructure, as well as plans to target senior Iranian leaders if diplomatic efforts fail.
Another Israeli official told CNN, ‘The real concern is that Trump could reach a bad deal. Israel is trying to influence it as much as possible.’ However, the report also stated that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is proceeding cautiously in this matter, as he does not want to be accused of pushing Trump toward war once again.
Meanwhile, a report by Fars News Agency claimed that Iran has set certain key conditions before resuming talks with the United States. Quoting sources, the report said that Tehran has outlined five ‘minimum guarantees’ to help rebuild trust.
These conditions include ending the war on all fronts, especially in Lebanon, lifting sanctions imposed on Iran, and releasing Iranian funds frozen abroad. In addition, Iran is also demanding compensation for war-related damages and recognition of its sovereign rights over the Strait of Hormuz.
According to the report, Iran also told Pakistan that the continued maritime blockade even after the ceasefire announcement has further deepened its distrust toward the United States.
According to Fars News Agency, Tehran says there is no possibility of any new negotiations with the United States unless these conditions are practically implemented and verified.