Benjamin Netanyahu has urged Washington to proceed cautiously in renewed nuclear negotiations with Iran, warning that Tehran cannot be relied upon to honor any agreement.
Netanyahu delivered the message during a meeting on Tuesday with Steve Witkoff, as diplomatic efforts to revive talks over Iran’s nuclear programme gathered pace.
In a statement, the Israeli prime minister’s office said Netanyahu emphasized Iran’s record of broken commitments, stressing that Tehran has “repeatedly proven that its promises cannot be trusted.”
Two Israeli officials confirmed the meeting was also attended by intelligence chief David Barnea, Defence Minister Israel Katz, and military chief Eyal Zamir.
The developments come as Iran and the United States prepare to resume negotiations in Turkey, with Donald Trump warning of severe consequences if no deal is reached.
Iranian sources say Washington is pressing three core demands: zero uranium enrichment, limits on Iran’s ballistic missile programme, and an end to Tehran’s backing of regional proxy groups—positions closely aligned with Israel’s long-standing stance. Tehran has rejected all three, calling them infringements on its sovereignty, though officials have hinted missile restrictions are the most contentious.
Tensions remain elevated as the U.S. increases its military presence in the Middle East, including deploying an aircraft carrier and supporting warships, raising fears of escalation if diplomacy fails.
Relations have been further strained by Iran’s violent crackdown on recent protests, which rights groups say left thousands dead. Iranian authorities have blamed the unrest on what they describe as armed groups backed by Israel and the United States.
