Netanyahu to Meet with Trump as U.S.-Iran Talks Continue
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will meet with U.S. President Donald Trump in Washington D.C. On Wednesday to discuss ongoing American talks with Iran, Netanyahu’s office announced Saturday, . The meeting comes as the U.S. And Iran held indirect talks in Oman , appearing to reset discussions regarding Tehran’s nuclear program.
According to a statement released by Netanyahu’s office, the prime minister believes any negotiations with Iran must include limitations on ballistic missiles and an end to support for what his office terms the “Iranian axis” – a reference to Tehran’s backing of groups like Hezbollah in Lebanon and Hamas in the Palestinian territories.
The meeting between Trump and Netanyahu, their first since December, is taking place as the U.S. Attempts to navigate a complex diplomatic landscape with Iran. President Trump described the recent talks in Oman as “very good” and indicated that further discussions are planned for early next week. The U.S. Delegation in Oman was led by Middle East special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, Trump’s son-in-law.
While the U.S. Seeks a diplomatic resolution, Trump has repeatedly warned of potential military action if Iran does not reach a deal on its nuclear program. He has previously authorized the deployment of the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln and other warships to the region, coinciding with a crackdown on protests within Iran.
The urgency of the situation was underscored by a warning from Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, who reportedly threatened U.S. Military bases in the region the day after the Oman talks. This threat, reported by the Associated Press, adds another layer of tension to the already delicate negotiations.
The talks in Oman appeared to bring the U.S. And Iran back to square one in their discussions about the nuclear program. The situation is further complicated by concerns raised by Israeli officials regarding Iran’s potential rebuilding of its long-range missile capabilities.
The incoming chief of the Israeli Air Force is also scheduled to join Netanyahu’s visit to Washington, according to reports, suggesting a broader discussion of regional security concerns beyond just the nuclear issue.
Recent comments from President Trump, made during a meeting with Netanyahu in Florida, indicated a willingness to consider further military strikes if Iran attempts to reconstitute its nuclear program. Trump stated that any confirmed activity outside of previously targeted sites would be met with a response “maybe more powerful than the last time,” referencing previous U.S. Strikes on Iranian nuclear enrichment sites. Iran maintains it is no longer enriching uranium at any site within the country, signaling a willingness to negotiate.
The situation presents a paradox, as some analysts suggest that Trump must choose between pursuing a deal with Tehran and upholding Israel’s strategic interests. The outcome of Wednesday’s meeting between Trump and Netanyahu could significantly influence the direction of U.S. Policy toward Iran and the broader Middle East region.
