US Officials Attempt to Block Netanyahu-Trump Meeting Amid Iran Tensions

Senior US administration officials, including associates of Vice President Mike Pence, are reportedly trying to prevent a meeting between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and President Donald Trump. Israeli sources told Ynet on Monday that despite reports of tension, Netanyahu and Trump maintain a better relationship than portrayed, and claims of anger are exaggerated. However, behind-the-scenes efforts by some US officials aim to stop the meeting, fearing it could push Trump toward a more aggressive stance against Iran.

Netanyahu plans to travel to the United States next week and attend the funeral of Senator Lindsey Graham on January 27. He prefers not to visit Washington without securing a meeting with Trump. The Prime Minister's Office continues negotiations with the White House to arrange the meeting, but no agreement has been reached yet.

Previously, Vice President Pence accused Israeli actors of running a covert campaign funded with substantial sums to influence American public opinion and disrupt negotiations with Iran. Pence claimed these actions aim to prolong conflict without a clear objective, stating, "These efforts are intended to extend the war not for a specific goal, but simply to continue it."