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Former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert praised President Donald Trump’s approach to negotiations with Iran, calling it a “determined and forthcoming” strategy during an interview on Newsmax’s Saturday Report. Olmert highlighted that Iran’s weakened position—due to setbacks in Syria, Yemen, and Gaza—creates a prime opportunity for the U.S. to push for a strong nuclear deal. He cautioned, however, that Tehran’s leaders are skilled at delaying talks and urged patience as discussions continue.
Olmert emphasized the importance of Trump’s firm stance, noting that America’s military readiness sends a clear message to Iran. While supporting diplomacy, he stressed that military action must remain an option if Iran refuses to abandon its nuclear ambitions. This balance of strength and restraint, Olmert argued, is critical to forcing Tehran to the table without escalating unnecessary conflict.
The former prime minister contrasted Trump’s strategy with past approaches, criticizing the Obama-era Iran nuclear deal as insufficient. He applauded Trump for reinstating sanctions and isolating Iran economically, which he said has crippled the regime’s ability to fund terrorism. Olmert warned that without sustained pressure, Iran could quickly advance its nuclear program, posing a direct threat to global security.
Trump’s proposal for indirect talks in Oman—mediated by Omani officials—marks a pragmatic step, according to Olmert. He dismissed Tehran’s claims of “positive” progress as typical negotiation tactics but acknowledged that even small diplomatic gains are worthwhile. Olmert reiterated that any deal must completely dismantle Iran’s nuclear infrastructure, leaving no room for covert weapons development.
Conservative commentators have echoed Olmert’s praise, framing Trump’s strategy as a rejection of weak-kneed globalism. They argue that America’s renewed leadership under Trump has restored credibility among allies like Israel while putting adversaries like Iran on notice. The focus on economic sanctions and strategic patience, they say, reflects a smarter use of American power compared to costly military interventions.
Critics of the Iran deal, including many Republicans, warn that Tehran cannot be trusted to honor any agreement. They point to Iran’s history of deception and its ongoing support for militant groups across the Middle East. Olmert agreed, noting that Iran’s leaders are “sophisticated manipulators” who will exploit any loopholes. He urged Trump to maintain leverage through sanctions until Tehran makes irreversible concessions.
Despite challenges, Olmert expressed cautious optimism about the talks, crediting Trump’s willingness to explore diplomacy without abandoning military deterrence. He highlighted the destruction of Hamas in Gaza and the Houthis’ diminished capabilities as proof that pressure works. For conservatives, this approach embodies the “peace through strength” philosophy that has defined Trump’s foreign policy.
As negotiations proceed, Olmert advised against premature celebrations, stressing that results will take time. He concluded that Trump’s combination of toughness and pragmatism offers the best path to neutralizing Iran’s nuclear threat—a victory that would secure America’s interests and strengthen its global standing.
