WASHINGTON (special crosspondent) – United States intelligence agencies have warned that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu could take actions that may jeopardise ongoing American efforts to secure a lasting peace agreement with Iran, according to a report published by The Washington Post.

The report, citing US intelligence assessments and senior officials familiar with the matter, says the White House has been cautioned that Israel’s leadership may pursue policies that conflict with Washington’s diplomatic strategy toward Tehran.

Domestic Pressures on Netanyahu

According to US officials, Mr. Netanyahu is facing significant domestic political pressure stemming from the continuing conflict in Lebanon and growing demands from hardline political factions within Israel. Intelligence assessments suggest these pressures could influence decisions that may complicate or derail negotiations between the United States and Iran.

The concerns come as the Trump administration seeks to transform the recently signed US-Iran Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) into a broader and more durable peace framework aimed at reducing regional tensions, addressing Iran’s nuclear program, and creating conditions for long-term stability in the Middle East.

Fears of Unilateral Israeli Action

US officials reportedly fear that any unilateral Israeli military action against Iranian interests or Iran-backed groups in the region could undermine confidence in the diplomatic process and potentially prompt Tehran to withdraw from negotiations. The Washington Post report highlights growing differences between Washington and Tel Aviv over how to address Iran and regional security challenges.

While the United States is pursuing a diplomatic path designed to reduce tensions and avoid a wider regional conflict, Israeli leaders continue to express concerns that any agreement with Iran must include strict guarantees regarding Tehran’s nuclear activities and regional influence. Israeli officials have repeatedly voiced skepticism about diplomatic engagement with Iran, arguing that Tehran’s military and nuclear capabilities remain a significant threat to Israel’s national security.

Critical Weeks Ahead

The intelligence warning underscores the delicate nature of the ongoing peace efforts and reflects broader concerns within the US administration that regional developments, particularly in Lebanon, could affect the success of negotiations with Iran.

Observers say the coming weeks will be critical in determining whether the initial US-Iran understanding can evolve into a comprehensive peace agreement or whether geopolitical tensions and competing regional interests will derail the process.