World News
Israel Calls Report on Alleged Threat to Iranian Negotiators ‘Fake News’, Rejects NYT Claims
Israel has firmly rejected a report suggesting that senior Iranian negotiators faced potential threats during diplomatic discussions earlier this year, describing the allegations as “fake news” and a “complete fabrication of reality.”
Israel has firmly rejected a report suggesting that senior Iranian negotiators faced potential threats during diplomatic discussions earlier this year, describing the allegations as “fake news” and a “complete fabrication of reality.”
The statement was issued on Friday by the office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in response to claims published by The New York Times and later cited by Israeli media outlets.
In a post shared on X, Netanyahu’s office said, “As usual, The New York Times’ latest story about Israel and the Iranian negotiators is fake news. A complete fabrication of reality.”
Report Claims US Officials Raised Security Concerns
According to the report, US officials allegedly conveyed indirect warnings to Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf during diplomatic engagements earlier this year, amid concerns that Israel could potentially target the two senior figures.
The report, citing current and former US officials, claimed that these concerns emerged in the weeks following the April 8 ceasefire, which ended hostilities linked to the broader US-Israel-Iran tensions.
It further alleged that American officials requested regional partners to communicate possible security risks to Tehran, warning that Israel might attempt to target key Iranian negotiators.
However, Israeli authorities have categorically denied the claims and dismissed the report as inaccurate.
Israel Rejects Allegations Amid Regional Diplomatic Activity
The controversy comes at a time of heightened diplomatic engagement across the Middle East, with several countries attempting to facilitate discussions between Washington and Tehran.
Regional media outlets have previously reported accusations against Israel regarding attacks on negotiating groups involved in conflict mediation efforts. However, Israeli officials have consistently denied allegations that they intentionally target diplomatic representatives.
Netanyahu and Trump Expected to Meet Soon
Separately, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and US President Donald Trump reportedly agreed to hold a meeting in the United States in the near future.
According to a statement released by Netanyahu’s office, the Israeli leader congratulated President Trump on the 250th anniversary celebrations marking the founding of the United States and highlighted the close relationship between both nations.
“The US is what ensures the freedom of the world, and Israel greatly appreciates the tight bond between the nations,” the statement said.
While officials confirmed that both leaders plan to meet soon, no official date or venue has been announced.
Qatar Talks Show Positive Progress
The latest developments also coincide with diplomatic efforts involving US and Iranian representatives.
On July 1, separate meetings held in Doha reportedly concluded with positive progress on several issues related to a 14-point Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).
Officials indicated that negotiations are expected to continue in the coming weeks, with the next round of discussions likely to take place after the conclusion of funeral ceremonies for Iran’s former Supreme Leader.
As regional diplomacy intensifies, developments surrounding Iran, Israel, and the United States are expected to remain closely watched by the international community.
