Israeli Officials Say Nuclear Deal May Be Close
Israeli officials express cautious optimism over a possible agreement but stress that Iran must remove enriched uranium or face renewed fighting
Israeli officials are expressing cautious optimism that the United States and Iran may be moving closer to a new agreement aimed at ending the current conflict, but they are making clear that any deal must include the removal of enriched uranium from Iranian territory.
According to Israeli sources, there is a reasonable chance that the sides could reach an agreement. However, they emphasized that if Tehran rejects the proposed framework, the fighting is expected to resume.
President Donald Trump added pressure on Iran in an interview with Fox News, saying Tehran has “one week” to speak with Washington. Trump also said that under a potential agreement, enriched uranium would be transferred to the United States and Iran would not be allowed to use underground nuclear facilities.
Reports cited in the Israeli media claim that a draft framework is being discussed between Washington and Tehran. The proposal reportedly includes a timetable for ending hostilities, a mechanism for continued negotiations, the restoration of freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, a freeze on uranium enrichment, enhanced international inspections, and gradual sanctions relief.
Iranian officials have pushed back against the American proposal. Iranian parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf accused the United States of trying to force Iran into surrender through economic pressure and maritime restrictions.
Israeli officials said Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu remains in close contact with Trump and senior White House officials. One diplomatic source said Israel was not surprised by Trump’s comments and that the American red lines, especially the removal of nuclear material, had been made clear.
At the same time, Netanyahu has reportedly instructed the IDF to prepare for every scenario, including a possible return to fighting if negotiations fail.
The reported draft also includes a 30 day period for intensive talks, likely to be held in Geneva or Islamabad. If the talks collapse, American forces would be able to renew military activity or restore the maritime blockade.
Trump warned that if no deal is reached, the United States could return to heavy strikes against Iran.