Amid growing tensions between America and Iran, US President Donald Trump met Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House. The leaders held a crucial meeting lasting around 90 minutes. During the discussion, they focused on Iran’s nuclear programme, regional security, and future strategies.
However, Israeli officials said the meeting did not aim to pressure America into war. Instead, both leaders reviewed several options, including diplomacy, economic pressure, and possible military action.
Three Possible Strategies Discussed Against Iran
According to reports, the leaders discussed three possible approaches regarding Iran. First, they considered a diplomatic agreement between both sides. US representatives Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are involved in talks with Iranian officials.
Meanwhile, major differences still remain between the two sides. Netanyahu expressed concerns that Iran may not accept a deal stopping its nuclear ambitions completely.
The second option involved continuing naval blockades against Iran and increasing economic sanctions. Furthermore, leaders discussed expanding military action if talks and restrictions failed to deliver results.
Tensions Increased After White House Discussion
Hours after the meeting ended, Iran attacked a US military base in Jordan using ballistic missiles. Following this attack, Trump warned about a strong military response against Iran.
However, Reuters reported that Netanyahu did not push Trump for an immediate attack. Instead, he said America should make the final decision.
Additionally, Trump raised concerns about the global economy during the meeting. He said prolonged conflict could increase energy prices and create economic instability worldwide.
Netanyahu believed Iran was using the Strait of Hormuz as its final pressure tool against America. Therefore, he supported increasing economic pressure on Tehran.
Syria, Saudi Arabia And Defence Plans Also Discussed
The leaders also discussed Syria’s situation during the meeting. Netanyahu showed Trump a map explaining Turkey’s influence over large parts of Syria.
He said Israel remained only in a border buffer zone. Netanyahu added that Israel would maintain its presence there while threats from militant groups continued.
Moreover, both leaders discussed a US-Saudi nuclear agreement and improving Saudi Arabia-Israel relations.
Meanwhile, Netanyahu informed Trump about Israel’s plan to reduce dependence on American military support over the next decade. The plan includes new defence partnerships, missile defence programmes, and joint development of advanced weapons.
Furthermore, Israel has started working on next-generation fighter aircraft plans. The move aims to reduce future dependence on American F-35 aircraft.
