In a televised address, Netanyahu stated that joint efforts had “crushed” Iran’s nuclear and ballistic missile programs, describing the outcome as a significant turning point in the ongoing Israel-Iran conflict. He also asserted that the campaign had weakened Iran’s leadership and its regional allies, adding that Tehran was now seeking a ceasefire after years of issuing threats against Israel.
The remarks came as diplomatic talks involving the United States, Iran, and Pakistan progressed in Islamabad but encountered friction. The White House confirmed that discussions remained ongoing but did not provide further details. Iranian state media reported that two rounds of talks had already taken place, with a third round expected. However, Iran’s semi-official Tasnim News Agency indicated that disagreements had intensified after both sides began exchanging draft proposals, citing what it described as excessive demands from the U.S. delegation.
Netanyahu also addressed the situation in Lebanon, emphasizing that any future agreement must include the dismantling of Hezbollah’s weapons and establish long-term stability. He said Lebanese officials had approached Israel multiple times over the past month to initiate direct peace negotiations.
Separately, U.S. President Donald Trump announced that American forces had begun operations in the Strait of Hormuz to ensure safe maritime passage. The waterway is a critical global oil route through which roughly 20 percent of the world’s crude supply typically flows. U.S. Central Command, or US Central Command, confirmed efforts to clear naval mines allegedly placed by Iran, while Iranian officials denied any U.S. presence in the area.
Iran has maintained that any agreement must include the lifting of sanctions and an end to Israeli military actions involving Hezbollah. Meanwhile, U.S. Vice President JD Vance stated earlier that Lebanon-related issues would not be part of the Islamabad negotiations, underscoring the complexity and divisions shaping the talks.
