Daijiworld Media Network - Washington
Washington, Feb 11: President Donald Trump will host Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House on Wednesday, as tensions escalate across the Middle East and talks over Iran’s nuclear programme intensify.
Netanyahu is expected to urge Trump to pursue a deal that halts Iran’s uranium enrichment and curbs its support for proxy groups like Hamas and Hezbollah. “I will present to the president our outlook regarding the principles of these negotiations,” Netanyahu said before departing for the US.
Iran has stated it will not restrict uranium enrichment unless Western sanctions, which have heavily impacted its economy, are eased. Netanyahu’s visit marks his sixth trip to the US since Trump returned to office, more than any other world leader.
Israeli officials stressed that any deal must include limits on Iran’s ballistic missiles and an end to support for its regional allies. Meanwhile, the US has strengthened its military presence in the region. Trump indicated he was “thinking” about sending a second aircraft carrier strike group to the Middle East, after deploying the USS Abraham Lincoln last month amid threats of action against Tehran.
Analysts say Israel is concerned that in the rush to negotiate, a US-Iran deal might fail to address Iran’s missile programme or proxy support, leaving remnants of its nuclear capability. Experts note that Iran is currently in a weaker position following mass protests and a 12-day US-Israel air campaign last year.
While Trump has ramped up rhetoric, former US officials believe he seeks to avoid direct military conflict with Iran ahead of the 2026 election year. “I don’t think Trump wants a major military confrontation with Iran going into an election year,” said former ambassador James Jeffrey.
The visit also coincides with ongoing Israel-Hamas talks on implementing the next phase of the ceasefire agreement in Gaza, following the two-year conflict triggered by the 7 October 2023 Hamas attack. The agreement requires Hamas disarmament, full Israeli withdrawal, and reconstruction of Gaza. Both sides have accused each other of violations, delaying progress.
A White House spokesperson reaffirmed the US-Israel alliance, calling Israel “a friend like no other” and highlighting ongoing efforts to implement the historic Gaza peace deal and strengthen regional security.