Senior Official Details Netanyahu-Trump Meeting on Iran and Regional Security Options

A senior diplomatic source briefed U.S. journalists on the recent meeting between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and U.S. President Donald Trump, describing the atmosphere as excellent and candid, akin to a long-married couple. The source dismissed rumors that Netanyahu had to plead for the visit, stating there were no preconditions for the meeting.

The discussion focused primarily on Iran, with Trump considering three options: reaching an agreement, continuing sanctions, or escalating military action. The source emphasized Iran's current weakness, citing nearly 100% inflation and economic collapse fears, alongside Tehran's deterrence against direct attacks on Israel. Regarding the Mount Machul facility, the source noted centrifuges are present but no uranium enrichment is occurring, and Israel maintains good intelligence on enriched materials.

Netanyahu presented Trump with a map of Syria, highlighting Israel's minimal territorial presence compared to Turkey's but stressing Israel's role in containing Iran, ISIS, and al-Qaeda. Netanyahu affirmed Israel's commitment to remain as long as threats persist. The prime minister also warned about Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's ambitions to revive the Ottoman Empire and his openly hostile rhetoric toward Israel.

On defense aid, Netanyahu outlined a strategic plan to phase out U.S. military assistance over ten years, aiming for Israeli self-sufficiency through joint projects funded equally by both countries. The briefing revealed Iranian threats against Netanyahu and other Israeli officials, including a foiled assassination plot in Miami targeting Netanyahu's son Yair.

Trump expressed frustration over Netanyahu's ongoing trial in Israel. The source criticized media double standards regarding incitement against Netanyahu and his family. Internationally, the source noted coordinated social media campaigns by Qatar, China, and Russia aimed at undermining support for Israel and the U.S., though Israel retains strong allies, especially among right-wing governments and some Arab states with covert ties.

Regarding the West Bank, plans for aggressive operations in additional refugee camps are prepared but not yet approved. The source concluded by highlighting unprecedented coordination between the Israeli and U.S. militaries, unmatched since World War II.