US President Donald Trump did not allow Israel to attack Iranian nuclear facilities in May, The New York Times newspaper reported, citing sources.
The US top official reportedly made the decision after months of internal negotiations about whether to pursue diplomacy with Iran or support Israel, the report added.
Israeli officials were allegedly ready to attack Iranian nuclear facilities in May and counted on US support, promising to set back Tehran's nuclear program by a year or more, the report said.
All Israeli plans would have required US help in carrying out the attack and defending Israel from Iran’s response, the report noted.
The Omani capital of Muscat hosted the first round of indirect talks between Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and US special presidential envoy for the Middle East Steve Witkoff last Saturday. Witkoff described the talks as positive and constructive, while Araghchi said the atmosphere was constructive and calm. The White House said that the second round of talks would be held on Saturday.