Israel said to be preparing for Iran strike as nuclear talks stall

U.S. President Donald Trump’s 60-day deadline for an agreement to be reached expired on Wednesday.

By Joshua Marks, JNS

Several major U.S. media outlets reported over the past 24 hours that Israel is preparing for a possible military operation against Iran, citing unnamed officials. No public confirmation has been offered by Israeli or U.S. officials.

The reports come as concerns mount that the U.S.-Iran nuclear talks are on the verge of collapse. The sixth round of talks is tentatively set for Sunday in Oman; U.S. President Donald Trump’s 60-day deadline for an agreement to be reached expired on Wednesday.

Israel’s Channel 12 News reported on Thursday that Israeli Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer and Mossad chief David Barnea will meet with U.S. Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff ahead of the scheduled talks.

The negotiations appear to have stalled over the issue of uranium enrichment. Trump has expressed skepticism regarding the prospects of reaching a deal, stating in a podcast that aired on Wednesday that he is becoming “less confident” regarding the success of the talks.

He was unequivocal when addressing the matter at the Kennedy Center on Wednesday, stating: “They can’t have a nuclear weapon, we’re not going to allow that.”

>