Trump: Iran deal close despite missile attack, urges Israel against retaliation

Former U.S. President Donald Trump commented that Iran's recent missile attack on Israel complicates diplomatic efforts but expressed confidence that a deal is nearing completion.

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This air raid by Iran will complicate diplomatic efforts. We were very close to a deal. A deal could be concluded this Monday, Tuesday, or Wednesday. But then this happened.

In an interview with Fox News, Trump stated, "This air raid by Iran will complicate diplomatic efforts." He added, "We were very close to a deal. A deal could be concluded this Monday, Tuesday, or Wednesday. But then this happened."

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You've already fired missiles, that's enough. Come back to the negotiating table and make a deal.

Trump suggested that the missile launch was unnecessary and urged Iran to return to negotiations. "You've already fired missiles, that's enough. Come back to the negotiating table and make a deal," he said. Iran had launched ballistic missiles toward northern Israel in response to an Israeli airstrike in Beirut, marking the first Iranian attack on Israel since a ceasefire took effect on April 8.

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I hope Israel does not retaliate.

The former president also voiced his disapproval of a potential Israeli retaliation. Speaking to Axios, Trump said, "I hope Israel does not retaliate." He warned that if Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu retaliated, the conflict with Iran could continue as it has for decades, potentially jeopardizing the ongoing negotiations. Trump emphasized his desire to finalize an agreement with Iran, stating, "We are very close to a final agreement with Iran. I would call Bibi right now and tell him not to retaliate."

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If Bibi retaliates, it will continue like the last 47 years or 3,000 years. Additional measures could also jeopardize ongoing negotiations.