Israeli Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer met U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff to discuss the Iranian nuclear program and Gaza ceasefire. The meeting coincided with the U.S.-Israel Strategic Consultative Group’s first session since Trump’s presidency. Egypt’s proposal aims to amend the ceasefire, while Israeli officials stress the need for decisive actions against Iran’s nuclear ambitions.
Israeli Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer, serving as the chief negotiator in the defunct Israel-Hamas ceasefire, recently met in Washington with U.S. Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff. This meeting comes shortly after Egypt proposed a new plan aimed at temporarily ceasing hostilities in Gaza. The discussions appear to be pivotal amid escalating tensions regarding Iranian nuclear advancements and the situation in Gaza.
Dermer’s visit to Washington coincided with the inaugural session of the U.S.-Israel Strategic Consultative Group (SCG) since President Trump assumed office. He is leading the Israeli contingent of this forum, alongside key U.S. officials including National Security Adviser Michael Waltz and representatives from the State Department and Pentagon. The discussions are anticipated to focus primarily on Gaza and Iran, with the U.S. urging Egypt and Qatar to facilitate a revised ceasefire agreement.
As part of the new proposal from Egypt, stipulated terms include securing the release of five Israeli hostages in exchange for an extension of the ceasefire, along with the resumption of humanitarian aid to Gaza and the release of Palestinian prisoners held in Israel. Despite the breakdown of the ceasefire previously orchestrated by Prime Minister Netanyahu, efforts continue to pursue a temporary resolution.
Furthermore, Dermer’s agenda includes talks on the Iranian nuclear program. According to a recent U.S. intelligence report, Iran’s Supreme Leader has not yet approved the development of a nuclear weapon, yet faces increasing pressure to do so given the diminishing influence of Iranian proxies. Israeli officials are reportedly advocating for the Trump administration to reject Iranian attempts to delay progress on its nuclear ambitions, emphasizing the urgency to act before it is too late.
Israeli military sources have warned of the imminent threat posed by Iran, asserting the need for heightened pressure to prevent further procrastination in their nuclear pursuits. The overarching objective remains to foster a collaborative approach towards addressing these critical geopolitical issues in both Gaza and Iran.
In conclusion, Minister Ron Dermer’s discussions in Washington underscore significant concerns regarding the Iranian nuclear program and the ongoing Gaza conflict. The proposed ceasefire negotiations led by Egypt indicate a focused effort to mitigate tensions, while Israeli leaders are keen to ensure that the U.S. remains vigilant against Iranian advancements. The urgency expressed by Israeli officials reflects a broader geopolitical urgency regarding nuclear threats in the region.
Original Source: www.al-monitor.com
