Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has pushed back against reports suggesting a divergence in views between himself and U.S. President Donald Trump regarding Iran’s nuclear ambitions. Netanyahu asserted that the two leaders remain aligned on their core objectives concerning Tehran, despite ongoing U.S. efforts to negotiate a broader nuclear agreement.
Shared Goals, Direct Diplomacy
Speaking on “The Sunday Briefing,” Netanyahu emphasized a unified front between Israel and the United States on the critical issue of Iran. “But I can tell you this, deal or no deal, as long as I’m prime minister, Iran will not have a nuclear weapon,” he stated, underscoring his unwavering stance. When questioned about the possibility of a strained relationship with President Trump stemming from Iran policy, Netanyahu indicated that any differences are managed through direct communication.
“I don’t think there’s a rift,” Netanyahu commented. He further elaborated on the strong bond between the two nations, stating, “I think America has no greater ally than Israel, and Israel has no greater ally than the United States.” He characterized the relationship as one where both leaders prioritize their respective national interests, which often leads to mutual understanding. “President Trump is the leader of the United States. He does what’s good for America. I am the leader of Israel, the one and only Jewish state. I do what’s good for Israel,” Netanyahu explained. He estimated that this alignment occurs “Ninety-nine percent of the time.”
Addressing U.S. President’s Remarks
The Israeli Prime Minister addressed specific comments made by President Trump, including remarks to Axios where the U.S. President suggested Netanyahu “knows who the boss is,” and earlier statements to the Financial Times indicating Netanyahu might have “no choice” but to accept a U.S.-Iran deal. Despite these remarks, Netanyahu reiterated that Washington and Jerusalem share the same fundamental strategic aim regarding Iran.
“We want to see Iran give up its nuclear weapons program,” Netanyahu articulated. “We want to see the nuclear-enriched material removed. We want to see the enrichment sites for nuclear materials dismantled.”
On Deal Negotiations and Timelines
When pressed about his comfort level with U.S.-led negotiations potentially extending beyond an August deadline, Netanyahu adopted a wait-and-see approach. “I would say it’s not over. I would judge it when it’s over,” he remarked, indicating that his assessment would be based on the final outcome of the talks rather than the duration.
Response to Senator Vance’s Comments
Netanyahu also responded to comments made by U.S. Senator JD Vance, who had advised Israeli officials against criticizing President Trump regarding the Iran deal, highlighting the U.S. as Israel’s “only powerful ally.” While expressing respect for Senator Vance and acknowledging a positive personal relationship, Netanyahu clarified that agreement on all points is not expected. “First of all, I respect JD Vance. We have a very good relationship, but it doesn’t mean that I agree with everything that he says,” the Prime Minister stated.
Reaffirming his strong ties with the U.S. President, Netanyahu concluded by reiterating his assessment of Trump’s support for Israel. “Donald Trump is a great, the greatest friend we’ve ever had in the White House, and I stand by that completely,” he affirmed.
