בקטאר דיווחו על הסכמות, איראן: "אין לנו אמון בארה"ב"; הוויתורים שעשויה ישראל לעשות

Amidst heightened tensions and speculation regarding a potential US-Iran confrontation, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met with US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegeman. The meeting, held at Ovda airport, lasted approximately two hours and caused Netanyahu to miss a football match. While Netanyahu stated he did not promise Trump anything in return for his support, US President Trump may expect concessions from Israel on various fronts, including Gaza, Lebanon, and the composition of the next Israeli government. A senior Israeli official estimated a 30% chance of an Israeli attack on Iran before the upcoming Israeli elections, primarily as a preemptive strike against an anticipated Iranian attack, with chances rising to 70% after US midterm elections.

Reports from Qatar suggest initial agreements between the US and Iran on resuming negotiations, including preventing escalation and releasing $6 billion in frozen Iranian funds. However, Iranian officials, including President Masoud Pezeshkian and Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, have denied these claims, emphasizing that Iran will not negotiate under sanctions and demanding the US lift them first. They also stressed Iran's readiness to defend its sovereignty. Pakistani Army Chief Asim Munir, who has been involved in mediation efforts, met with Iranian officials, conveying messages about negotiation not being a sign of weakness.

Iranian officials expressed distrust towards the US, with Mohsen Rezaei stating all enriched uranium would remain in Iran and that no negotiations would occur without trust-building measures from the US. Concerns were also raised about the ambiguity within the US administration regarding who holds the authority to make final decisions, potentially complicating mediation efforts. The timing of Hegeman's visit, shortly before Israeli elections, is seen as sensitive and could increase the risk of miscalculation.

Israeli security officials are preparing for various scenarios, including a potential Iranian surprise attack from multiple fronts. Discussions are ongoing regarding different response strategies. While some Israeli officials believe Netanyahu desires an attack on Iran, the US is reportedly not keen on such action at this time. The focus of the US visit appears to be ensuring Israel does not surprise them with an attack before the US midterm elections. The possibility of an Iranian attack after the Israeli elections is also being considered, potentially influencing the formation of the next Israeli government.