Report: US feared Israel could target Iranian negotiators during talks
The New York Times reports US officials feared Israel could target Foreign Minister Araghchi and Parliament Speaker Ghalibaf, potentially derailing ceasefire and peace talks with Tehran
Assessment
The report reveals a significant gap between American and Israeli assessments of acceptable risk during negotiations with Iran. US officials were concerned enough about potential Israeli strikes on senior Iranian political figures to raise the issue, suggesting distrust ran deeper than public statements suggested. The allegation, if accurate, would mean Israel weighed tactical operations against strategic diplomatic openings. How the Iranian side responds to learning of these fears may now shape the next phase of talks.