Trump, Netanyahu Consider Renewed Iran Strikes Ahead of Elections
The discussions reportedly occurred before Trump publicly said he would not attack Iran ahead of the US midterm elections. During the talks, Netanyahu presented Israeli intelligence assessments suggesting that Tehran was attempting to revive its nuclear program, including the possibility of using the Pickaxe Mountain facility for uranium enrichment, one source said.
A White House official rejected the account, describing the claim that the two leaders discussed restarting the war as "false." The official said Trump had ruled out military action against Iran before the US midterms in November.
Despite the public denial, US and Israeli military forces remain on alert and are completing preparations for a possible change in policy, according to sources familiar with the discussions. One US official characterized Trump's position as undecided, saying the president had instructed Netanyahu to prepare without committing to renewed strikes.
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and senior leaders at US Central Command were described as the main proponents of resuming military operations. Most of Trump's other advisers, however, reportedly favor maintaining sanctions and economic pressure rather than launching another attack.
Israeli Army Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir reportedly warned US Joint Chiefs Chairman Gen. Dan Caine that renewed fighting within three weeks could force Israel to delay its Oct. 27 election. The assessment was based on the likelihood of Iranian missile retaliation if hostilities resumed.
Meanwhile, Qatari mediators are still waiting for Tehran to respond to the latest US counterproposal, according to reports, leaving diplomatic efforts ongoing despite the reported military preparations.
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