Trump Emphasizes Ongoing Talks with Iran During Netanyahu Meeting

US President Donald Trump stated he insisted talks with Iran continue during a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, but warned he may take action against Tehran if a nuclear deal is not reached. The leaders met at the White House as tensions continue to rise across the Middle East and negotiations intensify over curbing Iran's nuclear weapons programme.

Netanyahu was expected to press Trump for a deal that would not only halt Iran's uranium enrichment but also address its ballistic missile programme and support for proxy groups like Hamas and Hezbollah. Meanwhile, Iran has suggested it is ready to limit its nuclear programme in return for sanctions relief, but has rejected several demands from the US.

Ahead of the meeting, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian warned that Iran would not yield to their excessive demands. Netanyahu's visit, marking his sixth trip to the US since Trump took office, involved discussions regarding Israel's security needs in the context of the negotiations. The meeting lasted nearly three hours but did not result in a public press conference.

Post-meeting, Trump expressed on social media that the discussions had been "very good" but noted that no definitive agreements were reached other than his insistence that negotiations with Iran continue. He conveyed a preference for a deal but indicated there could be consequences if an agreement wasn't achieved.

Netanyahu pointed out, prior to the trip, that negotiations must include limitations on ballistic missiles and put an end to Iran's support for militant organizations. The backdrop to this meeting is heightened US military presence in the region and Trump's warnings to Tehran regarding its actions of killing protesters during the unrest in Iran.

Despite challenges, Trump administration officials suggest a diplomatic solution remains viable as the US continues to navigate tension with Iran while attempting to stabilize its relationship with Israel and address the ongoing ceasefire between Israel and Hamas.