Israel fears US shift away from Iran nuclear issue amid Hormuz focus

Israeli officials are increasingly concerned that the United States' efforts to resolve tensions surrounding the Strait of Hormuz could come at the expense of addressing Iran's nuclear program, which Israel views as the central security challenge in the ongoing conflict, Al-Monitor says.

Citing sources within the Israeli leadership, the outlet reported that the US administration has shown little interest in advancing discussions on Iran's nuclear activities in recent weeks, prompting growing unease in Jerusalem.

According to the report, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has repeatedly raised the issue with US President Donald Trump, expressing concern over what he sees as Washington's lack of engagement on the nuclear file.

The report says Netanyahu is expected to meet with Trump on July 19, where he will seek to persuade the US president to shift the focus back to Iran's nuclear and missile programs.

The United States and Israel launched military operations against Iran on February 28. In June, Washington and Tehran signed a memorandum of understanding providing for an immediate ceasefire across all fronts, including Lebanon.

However, on the night of July 8, the United States resumed large-scale strikes against Iran, accusing Tehran of violating the provisions of the agreement related to the Strait of Hormuz.

By Vafa Guliyeva