Israel Monitors Indirect Iran Negotiations Amid Uncertainty Over Trump’s Approach

Israel is currently receiving only indirect updates on the ongoing negotiations between the United States and Iran regarding control over the Strait of Hormuz. Israeli officials express skepticism about the latest developments, which could potentially regulate activities in the strait and allow both countries to return to a memorandum of understanding. A senior Israeli source told N12 that while President Donald Trump and his advisors are eager for a deal, the Iranians are aware of this dynamic.

Despite the diplomatic efforts, Israel remains on high alert, maintaining communication with the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) amid uncertainty and unpredictability in Trump’s decision-making. An Israeli official remarked that the line between peace and war under Trump is as close as adjacent letters on a keyboard, emphasizing the fragile situation.

Earlier, a senior Iranian official told Reuters that Iran has decided to harden its stance against the U.S. to establish leverage before engaging in meaningful negotiations with Trump. This shift has led to more aggressive rhetoric from Tehran and strengthened ties with its proxies, including threats to block the Bab el-Mandeb Strait.

In related developments, an Indian vessel near Yemen’s territorial waters capsized after being hit, but all 14 crew members were rescued by the Yemeni Coast Guard. Iranian leadership believes previous flexibility only increased U.S. pressure, prompting a tougher approach. Regional sources warn that unless Washington accepts a new reality granting Iran a more significant role in the Strait of Hormuz, the conflict could escalate beyond the Gulf, potentially involving attacks on Gulf energy infrastructure and further maritime blockades.