US Official Says Iran Negotiations Enter Serious Phase Ahead of Trump-Netanyahu Meeting

A US administration official stated on Monday that negotiations with Iran have reached a "serious phase," with proposals exchanged through intermediaries but no agreements yet. This development was reported during the evening broadcast of Kan News. The White House is maintaining a low media profile ahead of President Donald Trump's meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, with no joint press conference planned and limited press access for journalists accompanying Netanyahu.

Earlier, Trump told reporters that he and Netanyahu have "some differences" regarding Iran but are "pretty close." He noted that Iran sought to return to talks after suffering setbacks, saying, "The only reason the Iranians want to talk is because they are not in a good position." Trump added there is a chance for progress in the talks but warned that if no deal is reached, the US will revert to previous policies.

The New York Times reported that Trump has temporarily abandoned plans for a large-scale strike against Iran after senior advisors expressed concerns, including a shortage of interceptor missiles. General Dan Coats, the Director of National Intelligence, reportedly warned that a broad military action could dangerously deplete Patriot missile stocks, which were heavily used in prior conflicts. There was also significant opposition within Trump's inner circle to escalating military conflict, with some officials doubting that intensified attacks would bring Iran back to negotiations, instead hardening their stance.

In related developments amid rising tensions, Bahrain's king spoke with Israeli President Isaac Herzog, and US intelligence agencies reported that Mojtaba, a figure linked to Iran, aspires to develop nuclear weapons.