President Discusses Iran Agreement and Regional Diplomatic Ties

The president said on Wednesday that an agreement with Iran might not be signed unless certain Arab states agree to recognize Israel. The president listed Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Kuwait as countries that should join existing diplomatic arrangements between Israel, the United Arab Emirates, and Bahrain.

Morocco and Kazakhstan later joined those arrangements. The president stated that the countries owe recognition of Israel to the United States.

The arrangements established diplomatic relations between Israel and the United Arab Emirates in 2020. Bahrain joined the same year. The president said additional diplomatic steps would not offset the effects of an agreement with Iran that leaves the country with enriched uranium and nuclear facilities.

The president said such steps would not compensate for sanctions relief or control of the Strait of Hormuz.

The president said ending Iran's regional influence remains the priority. Military operations against Iran have taken place, but further action was described as necessary. The president said the existing diplomatic arrangements are too significant to be used to offset an agreement with Iran.

The president said Saudi Arabia and Turkey have not supported military efforts against Iran. The president said Saudi Arabia denied use of its territory for operations and did not contribute its air force. The president said Turkey supported Iran during the conflict and continued backing other groups.

The president said any future diplomatic steps with Saudi Arabia should not require concessions on Palestinian statehood.