Trump, Netanyahu Discussed Fresh Iran Strikes, Report Says; White House Denies Talks
WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu discussed a potential new military operation against Iran ahead of upcoming elections, Axios reported, a claim the White House denied.Citing two US officials and other sources familiar with the matter, the outlet said the discussions took place before Trump publicly ruled out attacking Iran…
WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu discussed a potential new military operation against Iran ahead of upcoming elections, Axios reported, a claim the White House denied.
Citing two US officials and other sources familiar with the matter, the outlet said the discussions took place before Trump publicly ruled out attacking Iran ahead of the US midterm elections.
According to one source, Netanyahu cited Israeli intelligence alleging that Iran was rebuilding its nuclear programme, including potentially preparing the Pickaxe Mountain facility for uranium enrichment.
A White House official rejected the claim that the two leaders had discussed restarting the war. Sources cited by Axios, however, said US and Israeli forces remained on alert for possible action, although no final decision on fresh strikes had been made.
The report identified US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and the leadership of US Central Command as leading advocates of military action, while most advisers favoured maintaining sanctions and economic pressure.
Meanwhile, Qatari mediators were awaiting Iran’s response to the latest US counterproposal, according to the report.
