A new Israeli attack on Iran has complicated prospects for a potential peace agreement between Washington and Tehran. US President Donald Trump had expected the situation to remain under control, similar to the brief flare-up between Israel and Iran in April 2024, which de-escalated after both sides showed restraint.

Trump told the Financial Times that he controls all decisions, raising questions about his intended meaning. During his discussions with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, it reportedly became clear that while Trump wanted specific actions from Israel, Netanyahu faced internal political constraints and had to balance the influence of powerful figures and public opinion.

The situation has become more complex for Trump, as he had indicated that a deal or at least a memorandum of understanding between Iran and the United States could be signed within days.