Trump-Netanyahu tensions rise over possible Iran deal amid uranium stalemate

What happened

The New Arab reports that a tense phone call took place between US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu focused on a possible US-Iran deal aimed at ending the ongoing war. Israeli Channel 12 sources describe Netanyahu as concerned and skeptical about the negotiations, indicating significant disagreement on how to proceed, with Netanyahu advocating continued military pressure on Iran.

Outside Brief is treating this as a source-led account. Any disputed responsibility, casualty figure or battlefield claim should be read as unconfirmed/hearsay unless confirmed by another reliable source. Sources familiar with the call told Channel 12 that Trump mentioned a "letter of intent" was being prepared, potentially paving the way for 30 more days of talks covering Iran's nuclear program and control over the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global oil transit route that Tehran has largely restricted access to, provoking a US blockade of Iranian ports.

Reuters cites two unnamed senior Iranian officials stating that Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei has ordered that Iran’s near-weapons-grade enriched uranium stockpile remain inside the country. This marks a hardening of Tehran’s stance on one of Washington’s key demands, prompted by concerns over vulnerability to future US or Israeli attacks. Russia’s defense ministry has expressed willingness to help mediate on this issue.

Known from the source

• A phone call between Trump and Netanyahu discussed a potential US-Iran deal including a 'letter of intent'.
• Netanyahu expressed skepticism and favors continued military pressure on Iran.
• Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei ordered enriched uranium stockpile not be sent abroad.
• Iran controls access to the Strait of Hormuz, affecting global oil supply.
• The US has imposed a blockade on Iranian ports.

What remains unclear

Reports from CNN indicate that since the ceasefire on April 8, Iran has accelerated efforts to rebuild its military capabilities, including drone production and replacement of missile sites and launch platforms damaged during the conflict, according to US intelligence sources. One official suggests Iran could restore full offensive drone capacity within six months.

What remains unclear: Verification of the details and outcome of the Trump-Netanyahu phone call including any official statements. Confirmation of the 'letter of intent' draft and its contents regarding Iran negotiations. Verification from Iranian officials or credible sources regarding Mojtaba Khamenei's order on uranium stockpile retention. Details on Russia’s role and willingness to mediate uranium stockpile issues.

Evidence note

Outside Brief has kept this brief source-led and attributed. Claims should be read alongside the original source linked below.

Original source: The New Arab. Open the source.