WASHINGTON -- US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu concluded nearly three hours of closed-door talks at the White House on February 11 without reaching a clear agreement on how to proceed with Iran, underscoring lingering differences over diplomacy and security strategy.
There was nothing definitive reached other than I insisted that negotiations with Iran continue to see whether or not a Deal can be consummated, Trumpwrote on Truth Socialshortly after the meeting. If it can, I let the Prime Minister know that will be a preference. If it cannot, we will just have to see what the outcome will be.
The meeting -- their seventh since Trump returned to office -- took place entirely behind closed doors, a departure from previous visits by Netanyahu that featured joint appearances and news conferences. Neither leader took questions from reporters, and no joint statement was issued.
According to a brief readout from Netanyahus office, the two leaders addressed negotiations with Iran, Gaza, and regional developments.
The statement added that Netanyahu emphasized Israels security needs in the context of the negotiations, and that both sides agreed to maintain close coordination and ongoing communication. It did not indicate that any decisions had been made.
Irans nuclear program remains a central point of tension between Washington and Israel.
Israel alleges that Tehran is working toward building a nuclear weapon -- a claim Iran has repeatedly denied -- and views Irans ballistic missile program and support for regional militant groups as an existential threat.
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Satellite images appear to show entrances to Iranian nuclear sites buried under tons of soil and a marked increase in US forces in the region, as tension mounts over potential US strikes.
Netanyahu and key members of his governing coalition have long argued for a harder line against Tehran, with some advocating for regime change in the Islamic republic.
Trump, by contrast, has signaled a continued preference for diplomacy, even as he warned of potential consequences if talks fail.
Last time Iran decided that they were better off not making a Deal, and they were hit with Midnight Hammer -- That did not work well for them, Trump wrote in his Truth Social post on February 11, referring to a June US strike on Iranian nuclear facilities. Hopefully this time they will be more reasonable and responsible.
The White House meeting came against a backdrop of heightened regional tensions and mixed signals from Tehran.
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Earlier on February 11, Iranian President Masud Pezeshkian said his country was open to admitting international inspectors to verify that its nuclear program is peaceful, marking the 47th anniversary of the Islamic Revolution with a message aimed at easing international concerns.
We are not seeking to acquire nuclear weapons. We have stated this repeatedly and are ready for any verification, Pezeshkian said during anniversary celebrations that followed a deadly crackdown on mass anti-government protests last month. Security forces killed thousands of people during the unrest, according to reports, prompting strong condemnation from Washington and its allies.
Videos posted overnight on February 10-11 showed fireworks in Tehran celebrating the anniversary, even as many Iranians mourned those killed. In some clips, voices could be heard chanting death to the dictator and death to Khamenei, referring to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
