Israel Alarmed by Trump-Iran Nuclear Talks

Israel is increasingly worried that ongoing U.S.-Iran nuclear negotiations could undermine its military options, as President Trump pushes for a diplomatic breakthrough while warning Prime Minister Netanyahu against actions that might derail the talks.

Seven weeks into U.S.-Iran negotiations, Israeli officials fear that a potential deal may allow Iran to retain nuclear capabilities while curbing Israel’s right to launch preemptive strikes. Trump has cautioned Netanyahu that a military move would be “very inappropriate,” claiming a solution is near.

Netanyahu has publicly voiced skepticism, arguing that “a bad deal is worse than no deal.” Israeli officials are concerned Trump may ease his position on Iran’s uranium enrichment to secure a diplomatic win.

Iran's Nuclear Progress Raises Alarm

According to the U.N. atomic agency, Iran has significantly increased its production of near weapons-grade enriched uranium. American intelligence suggests Tehran could build a rudimentary bomb within months. Additionally, Iran is building fortified tunnels under the Natanz site, potentially shielding future enrichment from airstrikes.

These developments have led some Israeli security experts to advocate for unilateral military action, even without U.S. backing. However, others warn that such a move would be less effective and could damage Israel’s relationship with Washington.

Trump’s team, led by envoy Steve Witkoff, remains firm on the “zero enrichment” principle but acknowledges both sides may need to compromise. Trump set a two-month deadline in March, though officials now downplay the rigidity of that timeline. U.S. officials are preparing to offer Iran a detailed “term sheet” soon.

Amid mounting tensions, Trump has skipped a visit to Israel during his Gulf tour, struck a ceasefire with Yemen’s Houthis despite ongoing missile attacks on Israel, and facilitated a deal with Hamas for the release of a U.S. hostage—moves that have strained bilateral ties.

Military Contingency Still on the Table

Though Israel has postponed a planned 2025 strike on Iran at Washington’s request, it has not ruled out military action. Former Israeli security adviser Yaakov Amidror stated, “If in the end it is a bad agreement, Israel should use kinetic force to destroy Iran’s nuclear program, even if the U.S. opposes it.”

American officials hope a strong deal framework will keep Israel from launching a unilateral strike while diplomatic efforts continue. Still, the underlying mistrust and diverging strategic goals suggest the rift may widen if the negotiations stall or conclude with unsatisfactory terms for Tel Aviv.