Tensions flared in the Middle East on Monday as a senior Iranian official condemned a recent meeting between U.S. and Israeli leaders, labeling it an unlawful attempt to stifle Iran's nuclear program. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei criticized the meeting, asserting it breached international law and that the U.S. and Israel lack the power to hinder Iran's nuclear advancements. "They are incapable of impacting a nation like Iran," Baghaei declared to reporters, according to state media. Baghaei's comments were directed at the Sunday meeting in Jerusalem between U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, where Iran's nuclear ambitions were reportedly a central topic.

Following the meeting, Netanyahu expressed confidence in the joint U.S.-Israel efforts to curb Iran's nuclear program, stating, "I have no doubt we can and will accomplish our goal." This assertion was directly contradicted by Baghaei, who argued, "One cannot threaten Iran while simultaneously claiming to support dialogue." Baghaei's remarks followed Netanyahu's claims that Israeli military actions have weakened Iranian proxy groups across the Middle East, including Hamas. The Israeli Prime Minister reiterated his confidence, stating, "We can and will complete the task."

Some political observers have suggested that Israel's increasingly assertive stance, particularly regarding Iran's nuclear program, risks jeopardizing President Trump's expressed desire for a peaceful resolution with Iran. Rubio, however, emphasized the meeting's role in advancing what he termed President Trump's "audacious" Gaza strategy, identifying Iran as the primary obstacle to regional peace. He stated, "The president has a bold vision for Gaza's future, rejecting outdated approaches in favor of a courageous and innovative plan." Netanyahu echoed this sentiment, confirming a shared "unified strategy" with Trump for Gaza, which includes the complete dismantling of Hamas's political and military power.

Last week, Trump proposed relocating Palestinians from Gaza and developing the territory under U.S. control. Despite widespread concern and criticism regarding potential conflict and displacement, Trump has reaffirmed his commitment to this plan. "I remain dedicated to acquiring and owning Gaza," Trump stated. "We might delegate the rebuilding to other Middle Eastern nations, potentially under our supervision. However, we are committed to owning it, taking control, and preventing Hamas's return." The U.S.-Israel meeting also held symbolic significance, with the U.S. delivering a shipment of heavy weaponry and munitions to Israel, fulfilling a promise made by Trump last month. An Israeli defense official noted that this shipment "constitutes a valuable resource for the Air Force and the IDF and further demonstrates the strong U.S.-Israel alliance."