Muscat–Washington Diplomatic Duel: Larijani Disrupts Netanyahu’s Equation

DID Press International Desk: As Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu sought to influence US President Donald Trump’s calculations in Washington, Secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, Ali Larijani, delivered a clear and firm message from Muscat: Iran will never enter negotiations beyond the scope of nuclear file.

Coincidence of Two Sensitive Visits
Two significant trips unfolded in key capitals on Wednesday. Larijani held a three-hour meeting with Sultan of Oman in Muscat, while at the same time Netanyahu traveled to Washington for the sixth time during Trump’s presidency. According to analysts, the timing created the stage for what has been described as a “diplomatic duel.”

An Indirect Tehran–Washington Debate
Trump’s interview with an Israeli television network and Larijani’s conversation with Omani state television effectively formed an indirect exchange between the two sides. Trump, diverging from previous understandings reportedly associated with Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, once again raised the issue of Iran’s defensive capabilities.

Larijani’s Three Key Messages

1. Negotiations Limited to Nuclear Issue: The framework for talks is clearly defined, and any attempt to broaden the agenda would fundamentally undermine a potential agreement.
2. Iran Seeks Stability: Tehran is prepared to cooperate to reach a deal and help calm the region, but it will not bear responsibility for any possible instability.
3. Testing Trump’s Independence: The U.S. president must demonstrate whether he makes decisions based on Washington’s interests or according to what Larijani described as “Netanyahu’s script.” Any shift in Trump’s positions following Netanyahu’s visit would carry serious consequences for Israel.

Conclusion
Analysts believe Larijani’s remarks effectively placed the ball in Trump’s court, making it clear that Washington must now show whether it is genuinely seeking a real agreement or continuing to act under pressure from pro-Israel lobbying efforts.