ALBAWABA- US President Donald Trump has signaled a willingness to pursue negotiations with Iran while warning that military action could resume if diplomatic efforts fail. His remarks came ahead of a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, as Washington and Tehran seek to manage tensions following two weeks of direct military confrontation.
Speaking before his meeting with Netanyahu, Trump said there was a possibility of reaching an agreement with Iran, indicating that Tehran had expressed interest in holding talks. “I believe there is an opportunity for talks with Iran, and if that is the case, it’s good; otherwise, we will return to bombing,” Trump said. He added that he remained patient, stating, “My patience is long and I have plenty of time.”
The comments follow a period of relative calm after 14 days of escalating strikes between the United States and Iran, during which both sides exchanged attacks targeting military and strategic facilities. The confrontation also disrupted regional shipping and intensified tensions around the Strait of Hormuz, while allied groups and proxies across the region remained active.
Trump has repeatedly presented himself as willing to negotiate agreements but has also emphasized his readiness to use force if he believes diplomacy is failing. His latest comments suggest Washington is prepared to allow time for talks while keeping the threat of renewed strikes on the table.
The timing of Trump’s statements is significant as they came before his discussions with Netanyahu, whose government has adopted a tougher position toward Iran and has expressed skepticism over diplomatic engagement. Israel has consistently urged Washington to maintain maximum pressure on Tehran, particularly over Iran’s nuclear activities, missile capabilities, and regional influence.
The recent US-Iran confrontation followed a series of attacks and retaliatory strikes involving military assets, shipping routes, and regional allies. Although both sides have shown interest in avoiding a wider war, major disputes remain unresolved, including Iran’s nuclear program, US sanctions, and the activities of Iran-backed groups across the Middle East.
Diplomatic efforts have continued through regional channels, with countries including Iraq offering to facilitate discussions between Washington and Tehran. Trump has previously said Iran is interested in negotiations but must first face sufficient pressure to reach an agreement.
The upcoming Trump-Netanyahu meeting is expected to focus on Iran policy, Gaza, and broader regional security issues. Israel is expected to press for a firm US stance against Tehran, while Washington faces pressure to balance strategic objectives, energy market concerns, and the desire to avoid a prolonged military conflict.
