Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will meet US President Donald Trump in Washington on Wednesday
Jerusalem: Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will meet US President Donald Trump in Washington on Wednesday, with Iran’s ballistic missile programme taking centre stage amid ongoing nuclear negotiations.
Netanyahu stated that the primary focus of his meeting with Trump would be the negotiations with Iran, particularly concerning Tehran’s ballistic missile programme. While the US wants talks to cover both Iran’s nuclear capabilities and missile programme, Iran has so far refused to expand discussions beyond its nuclear activities.
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This marks the sixth US visit by Netanyahu since Trump returned to office last year. They last met in Jerusalem in October 2025, when Trump announced a ceasefire in Gaza. The Wednesday meeting follows recent talks between the US and Iran in Oman.
The meeting occurs amid international criticism over Israel’s measures in the West Bank, including allowing settlers to buy land directly from Palestinian owners. It is unclear whether Trump and Netanyahu will discuss this issue, despite his past opposition to annexation plans.
Israel views Iran’s missile capabilities as a major threat, potentially able to strike with little warning and overwhelm air-defence systems. The June 2025 conflict saw waves of Iranian missiles hitting Israel, causing significant damage to military and civilian targets. Experts stress that while not existential, the missile threat is a serious security concern.
Analysts note Netanyahu is concerned that Trump may not favour a military response against Iran. He aims to secure US recognition of Israel’s “red line” regarding Iran’s missile arsenal, ensuring it is included in any nuclear agreement.
Recent conflicts underline stakes
Tensions between Israel and Iran escalated after strikes on Iranian military and nuclear facilities in June 2025. Subsequent missile attacks and prior drone strikes from Iran have heightened the need for Israel to emphasise missile threats alongside nuclear concerns.
Iran’s foreign ministry warned Netanyahu’s visit could have a “destructive” impact on diplomacy and regional stability. Israeli officials continue to press for strong measures to mitigate the missile threat as the meeting approaches.
This visit underscores the high stakes of US-Israel diplomacy, balancing Iran negotiations, regional security, and ongoing concerns over Gaza and the West Bank.
Published: 10 Feb 2026, 10:08 pm IST
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