Former Israeli envoy says Netanyahu will obey if Trump orders ceasefire with Iran

In an exclusive interview with India Today, former Israeli Ambassador to the United States Michael Oren discusses Israel's position on potential back-channel talks between the US and Iran. Oren states that if President Donald Trump orders a ceasefire during negotiations, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu would be 'almost duty bound to obey', citing Israel's heavy dependence on the US for ammunition, fuel and diplomatic cover. He reveals that a 15-point plan being discussed addresses all of Israel's war aims, including ending Iran's nuclear programme, halting ballistic missile production, and stopping support for terrorist groups. Oren defends Israel's operations in Lebanon against Hezbollah, stating that 95 per cent of Israelis support the war with Iran and even higher numbers back action in the north. He describes the goal as eliminating the Iranian threat, noting that support for terror is 'in the DNA' of Iran's regime. Oren expresses concern that Iran could drag out negotiations and rebuild military capabilities, potentially requiring another war within five to ten years.