Trump Issues Stark Warning to Iran During Netanyahu's Visit Amid Gaza Ceasefire Talks

Trump's Firm Stance on Iran's Nuclear Ambitions

Florida (US): President Donald Trump issued a stern warning to Iran regarding its nuclear program as he hosted Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at his Mar-a-Lago estate for extensive discussions.

This caution follows Trump's assertion that U.S. military actions in June had effectively dismantled Iran's nuclear capabilities. However, Israeli officials have expressed worries about Iran's potential resurgence in developing long-range missiles that could target Israel.

Upon Netanyahu's arrival, Trump remarked, "I hear that Iran is attempting to rebuild its capabilities. If that’s the case, we will take decisive action against them. We will not hesitate to act, but let’s hope it doesn’t come to that."

Iran has claimed it is no longer enriching uranium, signaling a willingness to engage in negotiations regarding its nuclear activities. Nevertheless, Netanyahu was anticipated to discuss the possibility of renewed military action against Iran, following a recent 12-day conflict.

Trump reiterated his criticism of Iran for failing to reach a comprehensive disarmament agreement prior to the U.S. and Israeli military interventions earlier this year.

"They regret not finalizing that deal," Trump stated.

Critical Discussions on Gaza Ceasefire

Netanyahu's visit coincides with a pivotal moment in Gaza, as Trump aims to revitalize efforts for a U.S.-mediated ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, which is at risk of stagnation before advancing to the next phase of the agreement.

Trump, alongside Netanyahu, expressed his desire to expedite the transition to the second phase, emphasizing the necessity for Hamas to disarm.

Prior to their meeting, Netanyahu held discussions with Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.

While the ceasefire initiated by Trump has largely been maintained, recent developments have seen a slowdown in progress, with both parties accusing each other of violations. Tensions have also surfaced among the U.S., Israel, and Arab nations regarding the future direction.

The first phase of the truce commenced in October, shortly after the two-year anniversary of the Hamas-led assault on Israel, which resulted in approximately 1,200 fatalities. Of the 251 hostages taken during that time, all but one have been accounted for, either alive or deceased.

Challenges Ahead for Ceasefire Implementation

Netanyahu has indicated a reluctance to proceed with the next phase while the remains of Ran Gvili are still unaccounted for in Gaza.

Gvili's parents met with Netanyahu, Rubio, U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff, and Jared Kushner in Florida on Monday. They are expected to meet with Trump later, as reported by the Hostages and Missing Families Forum, which advocates for families of those abducted during the October 7 attack.

"They are anxiously awaiting their son's return," Trump remarked regarding the family of the young police officer affectionately known as 'Rani.'

The family is advocating for a delay in transitioning to Phase 2 of the agreement until Hamas fulfills its commitments from Phase 1 and returns Ran home.

Trump's ambitious 20-point plan, which has received backing from the U.N. Security Council, outlines a vision for ending Hamas's governance in Gaza.

Complexities of the Next Phase

The upcoming phase presents numerous complexities.

If successful, it would involve the reconstruction of a demilitarized Gaza under international oversight by a group led by Trump, known as the Board of Peace. A 'technocratic, apolitical' Palestinian committee would manage daily operations in Gaza under the Board's supervision.

The plan also envisions normalized relations between Israel and Arab nations, potentially paving the way for Palestinian independence. However, significant logistical and humanitarian challenges remain, including rebuilding Gaza, disarming Hamas, and establishing a security force called the International Stabilization Force.

The Board of Peace is expected to oversee Gaza's reconstruction under a renewable two-year U.N. mandate, with member announcements anticipated by the end of the year, although this may be delayed.

The leaders' meeting follows recent discussions between Witkoff, Kushner, and officials from Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey, who have been mediating the ceasefire.

Obstacles to Progress

Two primary challenges have hindered progress toward the second phase, according to an official briefed on the discussions. Israeli officials have been meticulously reviewing and approving members of the Palestinian technocratic committee from a list provided by mediators, while military operations continue.

Trump's plan also proposes a multinational stabilization force to ensure security, but its formation remains pending. The clarity of details following Monday's meeting is uncertain.

A Western diplomat noted a significant disparity between the U.S.-Israeli understanding of the force's mandate and that of other major regional and European nations.

All sources spoke on the condition of anonymity to share information not yet made public.

The U.S. and Israel envision the force taking a leading role in security operations, including disarming Hamas and other militant factions. However, potential troop-contributing nations are concerned that this mandate could label the force as an 'occupation force.'

Hamas has expressed a willingness to discuss 'freezing or storing' its weaponry but maintains its right to armed resistance as long as Israel occupies Palestinian territories. One U.S. official suggested a possible plan involving financial incentives for weapons, reminiscent of a 'buyback' initiative previously proposed by Witkoff.

Trump Advocates for Netanyahu's Pardon

In addition, Trump reiterated his appeal to Israeli President Isaac Herzog to grant a pardon to Netanyahu, who is currently facing a corruption trial.

Netanyahu is the first sitting prime minister in Israeli history to be tried, facing charges of fraud, breach of trust, and bribery in three separate cases involving alleged exchanges of favors with affluent political supporters.

Trump has previously reached out to Herzog advocating for a pardon and has voiced his support during his October address to the Knesset.