Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu embarked on a brief visit to the United States on Tuesday, where he is scheduled to meet with President Donald Trump and key members of the Trump administration on Wednesday. This meeting is being characterized by Israeli officials as a “strategy-shaping session.” The discussions are expected to not only address ongoing US-Iran negotiations but also to contemplate the ramifications should these talks falter, including considering a potential US military response.
Joining Netanyahu on this important visit are his military secretary, Maj.-Gen. Roman Gofman, and Gil Reich, the acting director of the National Security Council (NSC).
US Vice President JD Vance, speaking in Armenia, indicated that currently there are no predetermined limitations in the negotiations. He noted that President Trump is aiming for a comprehensive agreement regarding Iran. “If there are red lines in the talks with Iran, Trump will be the one to set them,” Vance stated. He emphasized that achieving a meaningful deal would be advantageous for all parties involved.
Amid these diplomatic efforts, the US government has cautioned vessels under its flag to avoid Iranian territorial waters while navigating the vital Strait of Hormuz due to concerns about potential provocations by Iran.
At the same time, Iran appears to be taking a firmer stance in negotiations. Mohammad Eslami, the head of Iran’s Atomic Energy Organization, conveyed that Iran is willing to dilute its uranium stockpile enriched to 60% in exchange for the complete lifting of sanctions. Additionally, Ali Larijani, Secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council and a key advisor to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, is expected to arrive in Oman to further explore potential agreements with the US.
Reports from The Jerusalem Post indicate that the American administration has communicated to Iran the expectation that Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and his delegation should come to their next discussions armed with substantive proposals. This follows a recent meeting in Oman, which included Trump envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner along with the head of US Central Command, Adm. Brad Cooper. While the initial discussions were primarily procedural, US officials are hopeful that Iran will approach the upcoming meeting ready to make concessions on critical nuclear issues and other related matters.
This unfolding diplomatic engagement signifies a pivotal moment in US-Iran relations, with the potential for significant developments that could alter the geopolitical landscape. As negotiations continue, there is a cautious optimism that the parties involved might find common ground, paving the way for a more stable future in the region.