The war over Hormuz must not replace the fight against a nuclear Iran – opinion

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's recent visit to Washington lacked a joint press statement and photo op with President Trump, reflecting White House sensitivity to Israeli influence on Iran policy. A de facto ceasefire between the US and Iran exists, born from a stalemate where neither side wants an all-out war but disagrees on the terms of a memorandum of understanding (MOU).

• Both Tehran and Washington have factions debating whether to pursue agreements to ease economic pressure or seek military gains.
• The US struggles to understand Iranian decision-making, while Iran exploits US vulnerabilities like aversion to prolonged wars and domestic political pressures.
• The article warns that the "War of Hormuz" over freedom of navigation must not overshadow the core strategic threat of Iran's nuclear program for Israel.
• Israel's role should be diplomatic, steering the US back to the nuclear issue and supporting a broad coalition to protect energy arteries, while maintaining its red line against an Iranian nuclear weapon.