Netanyahu says Trump sees chance for Iran deal as Israel continues strikes

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday struck a calibrated tone on the ongoing conflict with Iran, backing a possible diplomatic breakthrough while making it clear that military operations will continue unabated.

In a televised address following a call with US President Donald Trump, Netanyahu said there was a window for an agreement that could secure Israel’s core interests, even as Israeli forces keep up pressure on Iranian targets.

“He believes there is a chance to leverage the significant achievements of the IDF and the US military to realise the war objectives in an agreement, an agreement that will protect our vital interests,” Netanyahu said, referring to Trump’s assessment.

Netanyahu’s remarks come as Washington signals a potential de-escalation. Trump said he had ordered a five-day pause on strikes targeting Iran’s energy infrastructure after what he described as “very good and productive” talks with Tehran.

“I am pleased to report that the United States of America and the country of Iran have had, over the last two days, very good and productive conversations,” Trump said on Truth Social, hinting at a possible path toward a broader resolution.

But Netanyahu made it clear that Israel is not slowing down militarily.

“At the same time, we continue to strike both in Iran and in Lebanon,” he said. “We are crushing the missile and nuclear programme to dust and continue to hit Hezbollah hard.”

PRESSURE ON IRAN CONTINUES

The Israeli Prime Minister underscored recent operations, claiming that Israeli forces had killed two more Iranian nuclear scientists in recent days.

“Only days ago, we eliminated two more nuclear scientists, and more actions are expected,” he said, suggesting further strikes could be imminent. He reiterated that Israel’s strategic posture would not shift, regardless of diplomatic developments. “We will protect our vital interests in any situation,” Netanyahu said.

Netanyahu’s remarks highlight a dual-track approach: keeping up military pressure while leaving the door open for a negotiated outcome shaped by recent battlefield gains.

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