In a recent interview with Fox News, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu refrained from confirming or denying reports that former U.S. President Donald Trump vetoed a plan to assassinate Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. This conversation reportedly occurred in the midst of escalating tensions following Israel’s attacks on Iranian nuclear infrastructure.
According to three U.S. officials speaking to CBS News, Trump conveyed to Netanyahu that the assassination of Khamenei was “not a good idea.” Netanyahu, however, dismissed the specifics of these conversations, stating, “There’s so many false reports of conversations that never happened,” and emphasized Israel’s autonomy in deciding its military actions.
In alignment with previous statements, an Israeli official reiterated that Israel typically does not target political leaders directly, instead focusing on nuclear and military capabilities. This stance was highlighted amidst ongoing strikes between Israel and Iran, which have intensified over the past few days.
Trump has consistently expressed his willingness to mediate peace, suggesting that both Iran and Israel should come to an agreement. He referenced past successes in diplomacy, such as his negotiations between India and Pakistan. Despite the hostilities, he asserted that the U.S. would maintain its support for Israel while affirming that the U.S. was not involved in the recent attacks against Iran.
Meanwhile, the next round of nuclear talks between the U.S. and Iran, which were expected to occur recently, were canceled, as Iran indicated it was unwilling to negotiate a ceasefire while under attack. Iran has communicated its position through intermediaries, including Qatar and Oman, emphasizing its stance against negotiations under the current circumstances.
This complex geopolitical situation highlights the ongoing volatility in the region and the challenges surrounding diplomatic efforts, with hopes for a resolution still lingering despite the current hostilities. The possibility of continued dialogue remains crucial as leaders navigate these tensions.