Netanyahu and Trump Hold Positive Meeting on Iran Amid Diplomatic Talks

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described his recent meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump as one of their best, emphasizing the strong relationship between the two leaders. In an early Wednesday interview with Fox News, Netanyahu said critics looking for cracks in their alliance would be disappointed, highlighting their shared goal regarding Iran, which he said would be addressed either diplomatically or by other means. Netanyahu expressed skepticism about a deal with Iran, noting internal divisions within the Iranian regime and some factions' attempts to deceive the U.S. about Israel's resolve.

President Trump also commented on the meeting via his social media platform Truth Social, calling it "very good" and noting discussions on many important issues. The meeting, held at the White House, included senior Trump administration officials such as Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, Joint Chiefs Chairman Dan Cain, and special envoy Steve Whitkoff. The Israeli delegation featured National Security Council head Samuel Ben-Azra, Ambassador to the U.S. Yechiel Leiter, Chief of Staff Edo Nordan, military secretary Guy Markizano, Caroline Glick, and political advisor Ofir Falk.

The White House maintained a low media profile for the meeting, with no joint press conference and limited press access. Ahead of the meeting, Trump acknowledged some differences with Netanyahu on Iran but said they were "pretty close." Trump also warned on Fox News that if no deal is reached with Iran, the U.S. might bomb the Fordow nuclear site, adding he was well-informed about the situation and did not see it as a major problem. Regarding potential Israeli involvement in strikes on Iran, Trump said Netanyahu wanted to be involved but he did not think it was necessary.

Netanyahu traveled to Washington from Nevatim Airbase, stating his goal was to maintain Israel's security and expand peace in the region. This was Netanyahu's eighth meeting with Trump during the president's second term amid ongoing U.S. tensions with Iran. The New York Times recently reported that Trump halted a large-scale strike on Iran after advisors warned of missile defense shortages. A Trump administration official described the Iran negotiations as "serious," with proposals exchanged through intermediaries but no agreement yet, signaling progress in the talks.