As the Trump administration heads into a third stage of nuclear talks with Iran, the contours of a major missed opportunity are emerging. Trump — who in 2018 torpedoed the Obama-era nuclear deal — now seems to want something strikingly similar. Despite some threats and hints of toughness, Trump appears far more interested in striking any deal than using the opportunity to finally bring the Islamic Republic to heel.

Worse, he is suggesting that if force is needed, Israel should take the lead. This is a profound strategic error.

Iran’s nuclear program is no longer a theoretical threat. The regime is enriching uranium to 60% — a stone’s throw from weapons-grade — and possesses enough fissile material for multiple bombs, according to credible intelligence course. It continues to prevent inspections, advance centrifuge technology, and shield operations in underground facilities designed to survive airstrikes. While Tehran insists its intentions are peaceful, its actions betray a clear drive toward nuclear capability.

This is happening at a moment of vulnerability for the regime. Its proxies — Hamas, Hezbollah, the Houthis — have been hit hard since the war that Hamas launched on Oct. 7, 2023. So have

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