US President Donald Trump will host Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House on Wednesday. The meeting comes at a tense moment in the Middle East. At the same time, negotiations over Iran’s nuclear programme are entering a decisive phase.
Netanyahu plans to push for a broader agreement. He wants the United States to demand not only a halt to Iran’s uranium enrichment but also strict limits on its ballistic missile programme. In addition, he is expected to call for an end to Tehran’s support for groups such as Hamas and Hezbollah.
Before leaving for Washington, Netanyahu said he would present Israel’s position on the core principles of the negotiations.
Iran has shown readiness to limit parts of its nuclear programme. In return, it wants relief from international sanctions. However, Iranian leaders have firmly rejected demands related to missiles and regional allies.
Ahead of the White House meeting, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said Iran would not give in to what he called excessive demands. Speaking at a rally in Tehran marking the 47th anniversary of the Islamic Revolution, he stressed that Iran does not seek nuclear weapons. He also said the country is ready for verification measures.
At the same time, Pezeshkian emphasized that Iran will continue diplomatic talks with neighboring countries to maintain regional stability.
US Military Pressure Builds
The diplomatic push comes alongside rising military pressure. The United States has increased its military presence in the region. Trump recently warned Iran of possible strikes if it refuses to reach a deal or continues violent crackdowns on protesters.
Last month, the US sent the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group to the Middle East. Trump is now considering sending a second carrier group. He told reporters that Iran wants a deal badly, but added that any agreement must ensure no nuclear weapons and no missiles.
Israeli officials have also made their position clear. They say Israel reserves the right to act militarily if diplomacy fails.
