Trump Says U.S., Not Netanyahu, Directs Iran Negotiations

TEL AVIV, Israel — WASHINGTON — U.S. President Donald Trump stated in a telephone interview with the Financial Times that he is the sole decision-maker regarding negotiations with Iran. Trump asserted that the United States, not Israel, manages the negotiation process and that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has no alternative regarding any eventual agreement. These remarks follow Iran's launch of ballistic missiles at Israel in response to an Israeli strike on the southern suburbs of Beirut. Trump stated that the Iranian attack would not affect discussions between Washington and Tehran, though he noted that military options or economic sanctions could continue if no agreement is reached. Trump also disclosed a tense phone call with Netanyahu, during which he criticized the Israeli Prime Minister, arguing that attacks in Lebanon have disrupted the negotiation process with Iran. Trump stated his intention to prevent Tel Aviv from being drawn into a broader escalation with Tehran. Following the Iranian attack, Israel raised its alert level, and Netanyahu held emergency meetings with security officials to discuss a potential response.