Netanyahu warns Iran 'will never have nuclear weapon' as US–Iran deal takes shape
WASHINGTON, DC: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu publicly addressed reports of an emerging US-Iran agreement for the first time on Sunday, declaring that “Iran will never have a nuclear weapon” as diplomatic negotiations between Washington and Tehran appear to gain momentum.
Netanyahu posted the message on X alongside what appeared to be an AI-generated image featuring himself and US President Donald Trump, underscoring the close coordination between the two leaders amid growing speculation about the contours of a possible deal.
The statement comes as the Trump administration reportedly moves closer to a memorandum of understanding with Iran aimed at ending the ongoing conflict and restoring stability in the Persian Gulf region.
Israeli concerns remain over limited agreement
Despite signs of diplomatic progress, Israeli officials remain deeply concerned that a narrow agreement focused primarily on extending the ceasefire and reopening the Strait of Hormuz may fail to address Israel’s central security demands.
For Israel, the primary issue remains Iran’s nuclear infrastructure, particularly Tehran’s stockpile of enriched uranium and its broader nuclear capabilities.
Israeli officials fear that a temporary or limited arrangement could ease international pressure on Iran without permanently dismantling its nuclear ambitions.
The concerns reflect long-standing tensions between Israel and Iran, with successive Israeli governments insisting they will not accept any agreement that allows Tehran to retain nuclear enrichment capacity.
Trump reassures Netanyahu on nuclear demands
According to an Israeli official familiar with the discussions, Trump spoke with Netanyahu on Saturday following reports of progress in the negotiations.
During the conversation, Trump reportedly reassured the Israeli leader that the United States would maintain a hard line during talks with Tehran.
The official said Trump promised he would “stand firm” on demands that Iran fully dismantle its nuclear program and remove all enriched uranium from Iranian territory before any final agreement is signed.
The reported assurances appear aimed at calming Israeli fears that Washington could prioritize ending the conflict and reopening shipping routes over achieving long-term nuclear restrictions.
Strait of Hormuz remains central to negotiations
The Strait of Hormuz has emerged as a major focal point in the ongoing talks.
The strategic waterway, one of the world’s most critical oil transit routes, has faced severe disruption during the conflict, contributing to rising global energy prices and economic uncertainty.
The Trump administration has increasingly framed reopening the Strait as both a diplomatic and economic necessity, with officials suggesting a breakthrough could help stabilize global markets and reduce regional tensions.
However, Israeli officials continue to argue that any agreement must go beyond maritime security and directly confront Iran’s nuclear capabilities.
Netanyahu’s statement signals that while Israel may support efforts to reduce immediate tensions, it will continue pressing Washington to ensure any final agreement delivers permanent guarantees against an Iranian nuclear weapon.
