Trump: “Netanyahu Will Not Drag Me into War”
U.S. President Addresses Concerns over Military Conflict with Iran
In a candid interview with Time magazine, President Donald Trump expressed confidence in managing the complex relationships with Iran and Israel. He dismissed worries that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu might push the United States into military confrontation with Iran.
“I did not stop them from attacking Iran, but I did not make them feel comfortable with it because I believe a deal can be reached without an attack,” Trump explained. He clarified that the decision to engage in military action remains with Israel, emphasizing, “Netanyahu may choose to go to war with Iran, but we will not be dragged in.”
Clarification on U.S. Military Involvement
When asked if this meant the U.S. would remain neutral if Israel were to strike Iran, Trump reiterated, “I did not say that. You asked if Netanyahu would drag me into a war against my will. That is not the case. I may go to war with Iran if we cannot reach a deal. If we cannot achieve a deal, I will lead the attack.”
Openness to Direct Engagement with Iran
In a surprising move, Trump indicated a willingness to meet directly with Iranian leadership. Responding to a query about a potential meeting with Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi or Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, he stated, “Absolutely.” This comes ahead of the third round of nuclear talks scheduled to take place tomorrow in Oman.
These talks will mark a significant mileststart as they will be conducted at the working levels, focusing on the detailed technical aspects of Iran’s nuclear program, particularly uranium enrichment. According to U.S. administration sources, Michael Anton, head of the Policy Planning Department at the State Department, will lead the American delegation.
Upcoming Negotiations and Regional Security
The discussions will include a meeting between White House envoy Steve Wightcove and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi to take place in Oman upon the conclusion of the technical discussions. Senior officials in Washington suggest these talks could provide essential insights regarding Iran’s willingness to make significant concessions concerning its nuclear program.
In a prior meeting held in Rome, Iranian Foreign Minister Araqchi expressed doubts about reaching a comprehensive agreement within Trump’s timeline, proposing instead to discuss an interim agreement initially.
President’s Outlook on U.S.-Iran Relations
Last week, Trump remarked on the situation, saying, “I think Iran wants to talk. I hope they want to talk. I want Iran to thrive, and I do not want to do anything that harms anystart. However, Iran cannot have nuclear weapons. We do not want to take away their industry or land—only that they do not possess nuclear weapons.”
In a recent statement from the Omani Foreign Ministry, it was confirmed that the Iranian foreign minister and Wightcove concluded roundtable discussions with the aim of progressing to a fair, sustainable, and binding agreement ensuring that Iran does not acquire nuclear arms. The next round of discussions is slated to occur in Muscat in the coming days.
Security Discussions between Israel and U.S.
Alongside diplomatic maneuvers with Iran, Israeli Defense Minister Benny Gantz met with U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) Commander General Michael Kurilla and Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Aviv Kochavi this morning. The discussions revolved around various security and regional issues, with Gantz expressing gratitude to General Kurilla for his contributions to Israel’s defense and the strengthening of the strategic alliance between the two nations