Israel was preparing to strike Iran’s nuclear facilities as early as next month – but a single conversation with President Trump reversed direction. According to a report published this morning (Thursday) in The New York Times, Trump made it clear to Prime Minister Netanyahu during their early April meeting that the United States would not offer support, and informed him at the same time that talks with Iran were about to begin.
Fears of Regional Escalation – and the Decision
The article, written in collaboration with Ronen Bergman, reveals that Israel recently developed a broad strike plan targeting Iran’s nuclear infrastructure. The operation involved commando units and airstrikes, and depended on U.S. support to ensure success and shield against retaliation. Sources in the administration said Trump decided to oppose the move only after intense internal debate: on one side, CENTCOM Commander Gen. Michael Kurilla and National Security Advisor Mike Waltz supported the action; on the other, senior intelligence and national security officials warned it could spark a regional conflagration.
White House: We Won’t Support an Israeli Attack
According to the report, Netanyahu presented the details of the planned operation in closed-door meetings with senior American officials, including a more limited version that would involve only airstrikes – but even that was scrapped after the president communicated his opposition. Gen. Kurilla delivered the message during meetings in Israel, and Trump personally reiterated it in a conversation with Netanyahu, reportedly saying: “I will not support an Israeli attack.” That same day, Trump publicly announced the launch of negotiations with Iran.
The next round of U.S.-Iran talks is expected to take place this Saturday in Rome, mediated by Oman. According to the White House, the previous round in Oman was “positive and constructive.”
