Mossad Chief Visits Washington Amid Netanyahu's Push for War with Iran

Mossad Chief Roman Gofman is in Washington for talks with senior Trump administration officials regarding a potential conflict with Iran. Gofman, considered a close confidant of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, is visiting the U.S. as Netanyahu pressures President Donald Trump to resume military action against Iran. During his visit, Gofman met with CIA Director John Ratcliffe and is expected to meet with Senator Marco Rubio. It remains unclear if he will meet with President Trump. One source indicated Gofman may also travel to Miami to meet with White House envoy Steve Witkoff.

President Trump has so far resisted Netanyahu's pressure, acceding to requests from Gulf states like Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE to maintain the current situation, which involves economic pressure and sanctions rather than renewed military conflict. Trump stated on Thursday that he could "end it immediately" but is pursuing a longer, more moderate approach at the request of allies who believe Iran is "crumbling." He noted that these nations prefer a waiting period.

Meanwhile, opposition leaders in Israel are concerned that Netanyahu might initiate an attack on Iran or provoke a confrontation to undermine efforts to form a new government.