Washington, AP/Newsis – On April 7th (local time), U.S. President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held a meeting in the Oval Office at the White House. During a subsequent press conference, President Trump made a surprising announcement of a direct high-level nuclear negotiation with Iran scheduled for the 12th.
This unexpected announcement came during a joint press conference with Netanyahu, who reportedly appeared skeptical, as reported by Xinhua News. President Trump stated, “We are in direct talks with Iran. This is a situation that has reached a very dangerous stage, but I hope this meeting will be successful.”
He mentioned that on Saturday (the 12th), “very high-level officials” would engage in a “very big meeting,” although he did not specifically identify who would be involved in the talks. Xinhua News reported that Trump’s announcement came after Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei repeatedly refused direct dialogue with the U.S. despite various threats, including oil export bans and military operations.
Standing beside Netanyahu, Trump commented, “Everyone would agree on negotiating what is obviously necessary. That obvious matter is something that I personally do not want to be involved in. Frankly, Israel would also prefer to avoid it if possible.”
He continued, “So, we will see if we can avoid that situation. It is a matter that brings us dangerously close to a very critical stage, yet I hope the meeting succeeds. If it does, it would be the greatest benefit for Iran.”
Xinhua News reported mixed reactions to this announcement. Netanyahu, present at the announcement, is said to have remained skeptical about the direct talks between the U.S. and Iran.
The Times of Israel reported that Netanyahu stated, “If we could completely stop Iran’s nuclear program, it would be a good thing.”
However, Iran has yet to confirm its participation in direct talks with the U.S.