President Donald Trump warned Iran that the United States could launch additional military strikes if Tehran attempts to rebuild its nuclear program, delivering the message during high-level talks with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at his Mar-a-Lago residence in Florida.
Speaking to reporters on Monday, Trump said recent intelligence and reports suggest Iran may be trying to revive nuclear-related activities following U.S. strikes earlier this year on key enrichment facilities. Those strikes, carried out in June, were previously described by Trump as having fully destroyed Iran’s nuclear capabilities. However, he now indicated concerns that some efforts may be occurring outside the original target sites.
“If they’re rebuilding, they know what the consequences are,” Trump said, adding that any confirmed move to reconstitute Iran’s nuclear program would trigger a strong U.S. response. He stressed that while he hopes further action will not be necessary, Washington is prepared to act if needed.
Iran and Israel High on the Agenda
Netanyahu’s visit focused heavily on regional security, particularly Iran’s military capabilities and the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Israeli officials have voiced concern in recent weeks that Iran may also be working to replenish its stock of long-range missiles capable of reaching Israeli territory.
Iran has denied resuming uranium enrichment and has signaled openness to renewed negotiations with Western powers. The Iranian mission to the United Nations did not immediately comment on Trump’s remarks.
Trump and Netanyahu’s meeting comes just months after a brief but intense confrontation involving Iran and Israel, which heightened fears of a broader regional conflict.
Gaza Ceasefire Talks Face Challenges
The leaders also discussed the fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, which Trump has strongly supported. While the truce has largely held, progress toward a second phase has slowed amid mutual accusations of violations and disagreements over next steps.
Trump said he wants to move quickly toward the next phase of the deal but emphasized that Hamas must be disarmed. Netanyahu has been cautious about advancing negotiations, particularly while the remains of an Israeli hostage are still believed to be in Gaza.
The proposed second phase of the ceasefire envisions rebuilding Gaza under international supervision, led by a multinational framework often referred to as the “Board of Peace.” It would involve a technocratic Palestinian administration, international security forces, and broader normalization efforts between Israel and Arab nations. However, key details—including the structure and mandate of a proposed stabilization force—remain unresolved.
Diplomatic Gaps and Regional Concerns
Western and regional diplomats have acknowledged significant differences between the U.S.-Israeli vision for Gaza’s security and the views of potential international partners. Some countries are wary of contributing troops, fearing they could be perceived as an occupying force.
Hamas has said it may consider freezing or storing its weapons but insists it retains the right to armed resistance as long as Israel controls Palestinian territories. U.S. officials have floated ideas such as financial incentives in exchange for weapons, though no agreement has been reached.
Trump Renews Call for Netanyahu Pardon
During the visit, Trump also reiterated his call for Israeli President Isaac Herzog to grant Netanyahu a pardon in his ongoing corruption trial. Netanyahu faces charges of fraud, breach of trust, and bribery, making him the first sitting Israeli prime minister to stand trial.
Trump praised Netanyahu’s leadership during wartime and questioned why a pardon had not already been issued. Herzog’s office later clarified that while the request is under review, no decision has been made and the process is ongoing.
Despite the unresolved issues, the meeting underscored the close relationship between the two leaders and highlighted the growing complexity of security and diplomatic challenges facing the Middle East.
