Netanyahu, Trump discuss Iran nuclear plan and Gaza relocation proposal

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he and U.S. President Donald Trump reached agreement on preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons and also discussed a plan involving the relocation of Gaza’s population, according to statements made during a televised address following his visit to Washington.

Iran nuclear disarmament proposal echoes Libya model

Netanyahu said that discussions with Trump focused primarily on Iran’s nuclear program. Speaking to Israeli media, he confirmed that both leaders agreed that Iran must not obtain nuclear weapons.

“We agree that Iran will not have nuclear weapons,” Netanyahu said, as reported by Yedioth Ahronoth.

He advocated for a disarmament model similar to Libya’s 2003 nuclear deal, under which international inspectors oversaw the dismantling of nuclear infrastructure.

“U.S.-led forces would enter Iran, demolish facilities, and dismantle all equipment,” he added.

According to Netanyahu, if such an agreement fails to materialize due to delays or stalling by Iran, military intervention would be considered. “Everyone comprehends this. We discussed this thoroughly,” he said.

Trump to begin direct talks with Iran

Trump announced that direct negotiations with Iran would begin on Saturday, surprising Israeli officials. Israeli media reported that Netanyahu was summoned during a visit to Hungary to be informed of Washington’s plans.

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi later confirmed that indirect talks would take place in Oman.

Israel and Iran have long accused each other of sabotage, cyberattacks, and proxy conflicts, each identifying the other as its primary regional adversary.

Gaza displacement plan raised in Washington talks

Netanyahu also confirmed that the Trump administration’s proposal to relocate residents from Gaza was on the agenda.

“We also discussed President Trump’s vision, as we are currently in contact with nations discussing the possibility of absorbing numerous Gazans,” Netanyahu said.

The plan is reported to seek the relocation of Gaza’s population to Egypt, Jordan, or other countries. However, it has faced strong opposition from regional governments and international bodies. On March 4, the Arab League approved a $53 billion reconstruction plan for Gaza that excludes forced displacement.

Israel has been conducting a military campaign in Gaza for more than 18 months, with local and international sources reporting over 50,800 Palestinian deaths and thousands missing.

Cease-fire and prisoner talks in stalemate

A cease-fire brokered by Egypt, Qatar, and the U.S. in January led to the release of some hostages. However, the agreement stalled after the initial phase ended in March.

Netanyahu later resumed military operations, citing internal coalition pressure.

Currently, 59 Israeli hostages remain in Gaza, 24 of whom are believed to be alive. Israel holds more than 9,500 Palestinians in detention, amid reports of abuse and medical neglect, according to rights groups and media.

Netanyahu comments on US tariffs and Türkiye

Netanyahu also addressed trade discussions with Trump. “Trump requested countries to reduce their trade deficit with the U.S. to zero. I told him that’s not particularly difficult for us. We’ll accomplish it. It’s the least we can do for the U.S. and its president, who do so much for us.”

When asked about easing Israel’s 17% tariff, Trump reportedly replied, “Well, we’re talking about a whole new trade—maybe not,” adding, “We give Israel $4 billion a year. That’s a lot. We give Israel billions of dollars a year. Billions. It’s one of the highest of anyone.”

Netanyahu also commented on Türkiye’s alleged plans to build military bases in Syria, saying such moves pose a threat to Israel.

“I told President Trump, who is both my friend and a friend of President Erdogan, that if we need help, we’ll speak to him about it,” he said.

Legal cases against Netanyahu and Israel continue

The International Criminal Court (ICC) issued arrest warrants last November for Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant over war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza.

Israel also faces an ongoing genocide case at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) related to its actions in the enclave.