‘Little difference, but pretty close’: Trump and Netanyahu navigate Iran war fallout
Washington DC: US President Donald Trump met Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday in their first talks since the two countries launched a joint war against Iran. The meeting came amid growing political pressure on both leaders and visible differences over the future course of regional conflicts.
The discussions were expected to focus on Iran, including Israeli intelligence assessments about activity at the reported Pickaxe Mountain nuclear site. The talks also covered the Israel-Lebanon framework agreement, the situation in Gaza and efforts to expand the Abraham Accords.
Trump indicated some disagreement with Netanyahu’s approach towards Iran, saying there were “a little difference” between their positions but adding that they remained “pretty close”.
Iran remains key focus
Netanyahu was expected to share Israeli intelligence on Iran’s nuclear activities and discuss future options with Trump. The Israeli prime minister has argued that Iran’s nuclear programme must be stopped, while Trump has indicated interest in avoiding another prolonged military conflict.
Trump said reports about Netanyahu raising intelligence details publicly were unnecessary and questioned why such information needed to be announced.
The meeting comes after Iran responded to military strikes with drone and missile attacks, increasing pressure on Washington to end the conflict.
Although Trump and Netanyahu presented a united front during the Iran conflict, differences have emerged over how to handle the aftermath.
Netanyahu had supported continuing military operations against Iran and Hezbollah, while Trump pushed towards diplomatic efforts and negotiations.
Analysts said the meeting would test whether both leaders can manage disagreements while maintaining cooperation on regional security issues.
Gaza and Lebanon discussions
The leaders were also expected to discuss Gaza, where Israel’s military operations have drawn international criticism. Trump has previously expressed concern over civilian casualties and pushed for reconstruction and stabilisation efforts.
The talks also included the situation in Lebanon, where Israel and Lebanon have been working on arrangements related to Hezbollah and security deployments.
The US-backed framework agreement allows discussions on expanding the role of the Lebanese army in areas previously controlled by Hezbollah. Netanyahu faces political challenges ahead of elections in Israel, while Trump faces pressure over the economic impact of the Iran war ahead of US midterm elections.
Support for Israel has also declined among sections of the American public amid criticism of Israel’s actions in Gaza. The meeting was seen as an important test of the future direction of US-Israel relations as both leaders balance military, diplomatic and domestic pressures.