Netanyahu privately doubts influence over Trump's Iran decisions

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has privately conveyed to confidants that he feels powerless to shape U.S. President Donald Trump's decision-making concerning Iran. According to two sources speaking to Reuters, Netanyahu expressed this sentiment in private conversations amidst the ongoing war, which began with joint U.S.-Israeli strikes on February 28.

Netanyahu's private remarks, detailed by two Israeli officials familiar with the discussions, emerge as Israel has been largely sidelined from talks aimed at reaching an initial deal to cease hostilities. Both the United States and Iran have tempered expectations for a swift resolution, remaining at odds over Iran's nuclear ambitions, Tehran's demands for sanctions relief, and the cessation of Israeli military actions in southern Lebanon.

One of the Israeli officials, privy to Netanyahu's private conversations, revealed the prime minister's concerns regarding a memorandum of understanding currently under negotiation. This agreement reportedly involves Iran reopening the Strait of Hormuz in exchange for the U.S. lifting its naval blockade, followed by further discussions on nuclear matters. The U.S. and Iran are engaged in indirect talks facilitated by Pakistan.

Despite the agreement not immediately addressing Israel's core concerns about Iran's nuclear program and its stockpile of enriched uranium, Netanyahu reportedly acknowledged that Israel "has no maneuver to influence the president right now." Netanyahu's office did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The private sentiments contrast with public statements, as Trump had previously remarked about Netanyahu, "He's a very good man, he'll do whatever I want him to do."

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He's a very good man, he'll do whatever I want him to do.