By Sulyman Gobir
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has accused Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of manipulating the United States into going to war with Iran on behalf of Israel.
Araghchi made the allegation on Monday in a post on X, claiming that Netanyahu had boasted in Hebrew about influencing the US administration and persuading Washington to take military action against Iran.
“In Hebrew, Netanyahu openly crows that he suckered the U.S. Administration into a war on Iran on behalf of Israel,” Araghchi said, alleging that the Israeli leader had spoken about spending about 1,000 hours on US television networks to influence American opinion.
“In English, he praises POTUS’ leadership. Serpent,” the Iranian minister added, referring to US President Donald Trump.
US-Israel strikes trigger Iran conflict
The conflict between Iran and the United States began on February 28 after US and Israeli strikes reportedly killed Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, alongside several senior military officials.
Iran subsequently retaliated with attacks against targets across the region, widening the conflict and increasing tensions between Tehran, Washington and its regional allies.
An April ceasefire brought an end to the most intense phase of the fighting, but sporadic attacks, particularly around the strategic Strait of Hormuz, have continued to undermine prospects for a lasting peace agreement.
The United States has also shifted towards what it describes as a campaign of “economic asphyxiation” aimed at increasing pressure on Iran.
Fresh attacks raise tensions
The US military struck Iran’s Larak Island late Sunday, marking its first such attack in about a month.
Iran responded by claiming it had launched attacks against military bases in Jordan and the United Arab Emirates that are used by US forces.
The latest exchange has further complicated efforts to secure a durable resolution to the conflict.
Last week, Netanyahu ruled out the possibility of an agreement between Iran and the United States, while describing Iran’s leaders as “savages.”
Netanyahu’s long-standing opposition to Iran diplomacy
Netanyahu has for years remained deeply sceptical of diplomatic engagement with Tehran. He was an outspoken opponent of the 2015 Iran nuclear agreement negotiated during the administration of former US President Barack Obama.
However, during Trump’s efforts to pursue a negotiated settlement with Iran, Netanyahu has largely avoided publicly criticising the US president.
Araghchi’s latest comments are likely to further intensify the already strained relationship between Tehran and Washington, as both sides remain locked in a broader confrontation over Iran’s nuclear programme, regional security and US sanctions.
