Trump Scolds Netanyahu Over Lebanon Offensive, Iran Threatens Talks

Iran is signaling a potential halt to its negotiations with the United States, directly linking the continuation of talks to Israel's ongoing military offensive in Lebanon. Tehran views the conflict in Lebanon not as a peripheral issue but as central to the broader discussions with Washington, according to Iran expert Sina Toossi.

The renewed conflict between Israel and the Iran-backed Hezbollah militia erupted shortly after US-Iranian actions against Iran began on February 28. Hezbollah initiated attacks on northern Israel, prompting Israeli airstrikes and a ground offensive. Despite a mid-April ceasefire, fighting has persisted, with Israel launching its deepest incursion into Lebanese territory in a quarter-century.

US President Donald Trump reportedly intervened, contacting both Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Hezbollah intermediaries. According to US media reports, Trump strongly criticized Netanyahu during a phone call, accusing him of jeopardizing the negotiations with Iran. Reports suggest Trump exclaimed, "What the hell are you doing? You're completely out of your mind."

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What the hell are you doing? You're completely out of your mind.

Trump's direct engagement with Netanyahu underscores his urgency to reach an agreement with Iran. While publicly maintaining a composed demeanor, Trump has expressed impatience with the lengthy negotiations, describing them as "boring." His administration is aiming for a foundational agreement that would officially end the Iran war, commence two-month talks on Iran's nuclear program, and ensure the passage of oil and gas tankers through the Strait of Hormuz for the duration of these negotiations.

This potential deal is strategically important for Trump, particularly in his efforts to stabilize oil prices amid rising inflation in the US, which could impact his prospects in the upcoming November congressional elections. Both Iranian and US media have indicated that a breakthrough might be imminent, with Iran currently reviewing the latest US proposal and seeking "real benefits" for the Islamic Republic.

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The Lebanon is not a secondary issue for Tehran, but belongs to the core of the negotiations