Washington: US President Donald Trump has declared that Israel will not compel the United States into a war with Iran, though he acknowledged the possibility of military intervention to prevent Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon. In a recent interview with Time magazine commemorating his 100th day in office, Trump emphasized his firm stance that “Iran will not have a nuclear weapon.”
According to National Iraqi News Agency, Trump expressed optimism about achieving an agreement with Iran that could avoid the necessity of military action. “I think we can reach an agreement without having to attack, and I hope we can,” remarked Trump. However, he acknowledged the potential need for military force, stating, “it is possible that we will have to attack, because Iran must not have a nuclear weapon.”
Trump also addressed the possibility of Israel independently engaging in military action against Iran. He clarified his position, noting, “I didn’t stop them (the Israelis), but I didn’t make it convenient for them. Ultimately, I was going to leave the decision up to them, but I said I’d rather make a deal than drop bombs.” He further commented on the likelihood of being drawn into conflict by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, asserting that while Netanyahu “could get into a war,” the United States “won’t be dragged into it.” Trump maintained that he would only enter such a conflict willingly if negotiations failed, adding, “If we can’t make a deal, I’ll be at the forefront.”
The ongoing efforts to reach a diplomatic resolution continue as senior Iranian and American negotiators prepare to meet in Muscat. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi will engage in indirect talks with Trump’s Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, through Omani mediators. This meeting follows a second round of discussions in Rome, which both parties described as constructive.
In addition, expert-level talks are set to commence to lay the groundwork for a potential nuclear agreement, preceding an indirect meeting between the primary negotiators.