BY CHIJIOKE CHARLES
Israeli officials are increasingly worried that United States President Donald Trump could agree to a limited deal with Iran that fails to dismantle critical parts of Tehran’s military and nuclear capabilities, according to multiple sources familiar with the matter.
The concerns come amid ongoing diplomatic efforts between Washington and Tehran following months of heightened regional tensions and direct military exchanges involving Iran, Israel, and allied groups across the Middle East.
According to sources cited by CNN, Israeli leaders fear the White House may prioritize securing a quick agreement over achieving the broader objectives that fueled the conflict in the first place.
Israeli officials are particularly uneasy about reports suggesting current negotiations may focus mainly on Iran’s nuclear activities while leaving out Tehran’s ballistic missile program and its support for armed proxy groups across the region.
One Israeli source described the situation as a major concern, warning that Trump could “grow tired of talks and cut a deal — any deal — with last-minute concessions.”
The source added that while American officials have assured Israel that Iran’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium remains part of discussions, the apparent omission of missile capabilities and regional militias from negotiations is deeply troubling for Jerusalem.
During the conflict, Iran launched more than 1,000 ballistic missiles and waves of drones targeting Israel and Gulf Arab states, significantly escalating fears of a wider regional war. Israeli officials argue that any agreement that leaves those capabilities untouched would allow Tehran to retain the infrastructure needed to threaten Israel and its allies in the future.
There are also concerns within Israel that easing economic sanctions on Iran without fully curbing its military influence could strengthen the Iranian government financially and politically. Officials fear a deal that relaxes pressure on Tehran could provide the regime with fresh resources to rebuild its regional networks and continue supporting armed groups across the Middle East.
The growing unease underscores an emerging divide between Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over how the conflict should end. While Trump is seen as increasingly reluctant to resume a prolonged military confrontation, Netanyahu reportedly fears the war could conclude without fully eliminating what Israel views as Iran’s long-term threats.
The developments come at a delicate moment for the region, with diplomatic negotiations continuing under intense international scrutiny and fears remaining high over the possibility of another major escalation in the Middle East.
