Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is seeking an urgent meeting with US President Donald Trump after the latter returns from the G7 Summit, according to an Israeli source cited by CNN.
The proposed meeting comes as Israel looks to communicate its concerns regarding the evolving diplomatic process involving Iran and broader regional security developments. According to the report, Netanyahu wants to “clarify and communicate Israel’s positions in the negotiations" during the discussions.
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A key issue expected to feature in the talks is Israel's role in ongoing military operations in Lebanon, where tensions involving the Iran-backed Hezbollah movement remain a significant challenge despite efforts to secure a wider ceasefire.
Concerns over US-Iran agreement
The request follows the announcement of an initial agreement between Washington and Tehran aimed at ending months of conflict and reopening the Strait of Hormuz.
The development has reportedly generated concern in Israel, which was not directly involved in the negotiations. Israeli officials are closely watching the potential impact of the agreement on the country's security interests and the regional balance of power.
Trump also appeared to acknowledge differences with Netanyahu while discussing the diplomatic process.
“He’s a very difficult guy," Trump was quoted as saying by News18.
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“And to be honest with you, he should be very thankful to us for doing this. Because if Iran had a nuclear weapon, Israel wouldn’t be around for two hours," he added.
Trump further stated that if Iran failed to reach a final nuclear accord with the United States, he could either resume military action or make the United States “the guardian of the Middle East" in exchange for a share of regional revenues.
The US President also claimed the agreement would keep the Strait of Hormuz “permanently toll-free".
Challenges remain despite ceasefire framework
The United States and Iran reached the preliminary agreement early Monday, creating a pathway for reopening the Strait of Hormuz and extending a fragile ceasefire after months of conflict that affected multiple countries across the region.
Pakistan, which played a mediating role in the process, has said a formal signing ceremony is expected in Switzerland on June 19. Iran has indicated that implementation of the agreement will begin only after the signing takes place.
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According to AP, one of the most difficult unresolved issues remains the situation in Lebanon. Israel's military operations against Hezbollah reportedly continue to pose challenges to broader peace efforts.
Negotiators are also expected to spend the next 60 days addressing questions surrounding Iran's stockpile of highly enriched uranium and the future of its nuclear programme, one of the most sensitive elements of the ongoing talks.
FAQs:
Why is Netanyahu seeking a meeting with Trump?
According to reports, Netanyahu wants to discuss Israel's position on the ongoing Iran negotiations and regional security concerns.
What issues are expected to be discussed during the meeting?
Iran negotiations, Israel's operations in Lebanon, regional security developments and the future of the US-Iran agreement are expected to feature prominently.
