Prime Minister Netanyahu and President Trump Hold Key Call Ahead of Iran Nuclear Response

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and US President Donald Trump held a pivotal 40-minute phone conversation on Monday night, just one day before Iran is expected to deliver its formal response to a renewed nuclear deal proposal. The discussion, described by Trump as “good,” focused on the ongoing nuclear negotiations with Iran and the wider regional implications, including Iran’s involvement in Gaza.

Following the call, Netanyahu convened a high-level security meeting with defense officials and ministers to assess the latest developments surrounding Iran’s nuclear program. Israeli officials characterized the conversation as highly significant, underscoring the critical stage of the diplomatic efforts.

US-Iran Talks Continue, But Tensions Remain

According to the Prime Minister’s Office, President Trump told Netanyahu that the US had submitted a “reasonable offer” to Iran, with a response expected in the coming days. Trump also informed Netanyahu of plans to hold another round of negotiations with Iranian representatives later this week.

“They are tough negotiators, they are asking for things that we cannot agree to,” Trump said after the conversation. He reaffirmed his firm opposition to Iran’s demand to maintain uranium enrichment on its soil. “They want enrichment, and we will not accept it. For now, they are not there — the alternatives are terrible.”

Trump also linked Iran to regional instability, including the ongoing conflict involving Hamas. “We are currently in the midst of extensive negotiations between us, Hamas, and Israel. Iran is also involved. We want to bring all the hostages home,” he said.

Military Options Still on the Table

While the US remains committed to a diplomatic solution, Trump has previously warned that if talks collapse, Washington is prepared to activate “Option B” — a potential military strike on Iran’s nuclear infrastructure. It is widely believed that this scenario, and the need for US-Israel coordination in both offensive and defensive operations, was discussed during the call.

Israeli defense officials say preparations are nearing completion in anticipation of any possible development. This includes operational plans, weapons readiness, logistical supplies, and defensive measures to counter a potential missile response from Iran. Coordination with Washington is considered essential in both planning an attack and in managing the aftermath.

Shift in Tone Between Leaders

Although recent conversations between Netanyahu and Trump have been publicly described as cordial, tensions have surfaced. In a previous call, Trump reportedly urged Netanyahu not to interfere with his diplomatic efforts with Iran, asserting that he could deliver a “good agreement.” Trump later confirmed that he had explicitly requested Israel refrain from striking Iran unilaterally.

However, in more recent discussions, the tone appears to have shifted. Both leaders now stress the importance of maintaining coordination and transparency. Israeli officials say that the urgency and openness of last night’s conversation reflect a more aligned approach between Jerusalem and Washington.

IAEA Report Adds Pressure

The call comes amid heightened scrutiny over Iran’s nuclear activities. Last week, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) released a rare and troubling report confirming that Iran had previously engaged in undeclared nuclear activities involving nuclear material at three suspicious sites. These findings have intensified concerns in both Washington and Jerusalem about Iran’s intentions and credibility.

As the clock ticks down toward Iran’s official response, both the US and Israel appear to be bracing for all outcomes — diplomatic or otherwise.