In a significant development in Middle East geopolitics, US President Donald Trump has rejected Israel's plan to carry out a strike on Iran's nuclear facilities in May 2025, opting instead for diplomatic negotiations, according to multiple sources [1][2][3].

The New York Times reported that Israel had developed a detailed plan to attack Iranian nuclear sites as early as next month. Israeli officials were prepared to execute the operation and had hoped for US approval and support [3]. The goal of the proposed strike was to set back Tehran's ability to develop a nuclear weapon by a year or more [1].

However, President Trump chose diplomacy over military action after months of internal debates within his administration [3]. The decision came following discussions that revealed divisions between proponents of military action and advisers who were skeptical about the effectiveness of a strike in destroying Iran's nuclear ambitions without risking a larger conflict [2].

The US President reportedly informed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of this decision during a meeting in Washington in early April [1]. This move signaled a preference for negotiation over confrontation in addressing Iran's nuclear program.

Recent diplomatic efforts have already begun, with US and Iranian officials holding talks in Oman on April 12. These discussions focused on finding ways to resolve the situation surrounding Tehran's nuclear program [1]. Iran's delegation was led by Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, indicating high-level engagement in the negotiation process.

The decision to pursue diplomacy comes at a time when Iran is perceived to be weakened both militarily and economically [2][3]. This situation may provide an opportunity for productive negotiations, although the specifics of any potential deal remain unclear.

As tensions in the region continue to evolve, the international community will be closely watching the outcomes of these diplomatic efforts and their impact on regional stability and global nuclear non-proliferation goals.