WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump said fresh exchanges of fire between Israel and Iran would not affect ongoing negotiations between Washington and Tehran aimed at ending the broader conflict.
In an interview with the Financial Times, Trump said a deal with Iran remained within reach despite the latest escalation.
“It will have no impact on the deal. I make the decisions, all the decisions. Netanyahu doesn’t make the decisions,” Trump said.
His remarks came after Israel launched new airstrikes on the outskirts of Beirut, despite a U.S.-backed ceasefire initiative announced last week for Lebanon.
Iran responded by firing missiles at Israeli targets, further raising tensions across the region.
Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said the missiles targeted the Ramat David Air Base near Nazareth. The Israeli military said its air defense systems intercepted the incoming missiles.
U.S. and Israeli officials said Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu spoke by telephone for about 30 minutes on Sunday.
According to U.S. media reports, Trump urged Netanyahu to avoid further military action because a potential agreement with Iran was close.
Meanwhile, Israeli military chief Eyal Zamir said he had not received orders to strike Iran. He added that the military was prepared to act if instructed.
The latest tensions also pushed oil prices higher. Brent crude rose more than 2 percent and climbed above $95 a barrel.
Also Read: Israel Strikes Iran Despite Trump’s Call for Restraint
The United States and Iran continue negotiations on a ceasefire and broader peace arrangement. However, Israeli military operations in Lebanon and ongoing clashes with Hezbollah remain major obstacles to a lasting agreement.
Iran has repeatedly said any permanent deal must include a sustainable ceasefire in Lebanon.
