Netanyahu Discusses Possible New Strike on Iran with Trump

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has held discussions with U.S. President Donald Trump on the possibility of launching a second round of military strikes against Iran. According to multiple media reports, the talks took place during Netanyahu’s visit to the United States late last month, further heightening tensions surrounding Iran’s nuclear program, missile capabilities, and broader Mid

News agency Anadolu Agency reported that during the White House meeting, Netanyahu conveyed Israel’s deep concerns over Iran’s nuclear activities and missile development. Separately, Axios reported that Netanyahu also raised the issue of Hezbollah’s alleged efforts to rebuild its long-range missile arsenal in Lebanon. A U.S. official confirmed to Axios that the possibility of renewed strikes on Iran in 2026 was discussed. Earlier, in June of the past year, the United States and Israel were involved in a 12-day conflict with Iran.

That military campaign primarily targeted Iran’s nuclear infrastructure and missile capabilities. Describing the June strikes as a “major success,” Trump said at the time that if Iran attempted to rebuild its nuclear program, the United States would destroy it again. The U.S. official added that Trump could favor renewed military action if Iran is seen taking “real and verifiable steps” toward reviving its nuclear activities, although defining what constitutes “rebuilding” remains a key challenge for both sides.

In recent weeks, Israel has again voiced concern over Iran’s missile development and has accused Hezbollah of stockpiling new long-range weapons in Lebanon. In response, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian warned that any aggression would be met with a “strong response,” while Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi urged Trump to return to negotiations in a “respectful atmosphere.”

The U.S. official noted that no specific agreement was reached regarding the timing or exact conditions for any future military action against Iran. Netanyahu’s office declined to comment, while the White House advised Axios to focus on Trump’s public statements.

During the June conflict, U.S. forces, alongside Israel, struck three major Iranian nuclear sites—Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan—using bunker-buster bombs. More than a week earlier, Israel had launched surprise attacks inside Iran, killing senior military officials and nuclear scientists and targeting several nuclear facilities.

Reports also say Trump agreed to move forward with the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire and pledged full support for Israeli military action if Hamas fails to disarm. The Gaza Board of Peace is expected to meet in Davos on January 23. Since the Israeli offensive began in October 2023, more than 71,000 people have been killed and over 171,000 injured in Gaza. The United Nations estimates that rebuilding the devastated territory will require around $70 billion.