Netanyahu Admits Difficulty in Influencing Trump on Iran Policy
The administration of US President Donald Trump is closing in on a deal with Iran to extend a ceasefire and reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, a key ally in Trump’s stance against Iran, has admitted struggling to sway Trump’s position on the Middle East conflict.
According to CNN and Axios on May 24, Trump stated that the agreement with Iran is largely negotiated, with drafts awaiting finalisation by the US, Iran, and other nations. “A deal has been largely negotiated and is awaiting finalisation between the United States, the Islamic Republic of Iran, and various other countries,” Trump wrote on Truth Social.
Trump mentioned communicating with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) and Jordan’s King Abdullah regarding the deal, adding it would be announced soon. “Alongside other elements of the agreement, the Strait of Hormuz will be reopened,” he said.
Israeli media reports, including Anadolu Agency on May 25, revealed Netanyahu’s admissions during closed-door government discussions. Channel 13 cited anonymous political sources saying Netanyahu expressed concerns during these talks about the emerging US-Iran deal.
“The Israeli government currently has ‘no room to manoeuvre’ to influence Trump’s decision,” the report stated. The Israeli Security Cabinet held emergency meetings on May 24 as reports of a potential deal intensified, with security agencies on high alert due to fears the agreement would shield Iran politically, ease economic pressure, and preserve its nuclear infrastructure and proxy networks.
Channel 13 reported Israel’s diplomatic efforts in Washington are led by former Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer, while the US negotiates with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. The report also noted Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei is “the only figure capable of scuppering the deal.” Close Trump associates, including Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff and advisor Jared Kushner, have urged the president to advance the agreement.
Israeli concerns have grown that diplomatic efforts may result in a deal insufficient to prevent Iran from developing nuclear capabilities in the future. On May 24, Israeli public broadcaster KAN cited sources stating Netanyahu spoke to Trump by phone, expressing concerns over delays in action regarding Iran’s nuclear file and linking Lebanon’s ceasefire to Iran in the proposed agreement.