Did Trump and Netanyahu Discuss Iran and Gaza Progress?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Washington, Feb 12 (NationPress) US President Donald Trump described his recent discussion with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House as a “very productive meeting”, where both leaders concentrated on dialogues with Iran and the status of Gaza.
“I just concluded my meeting with Prime Minister Netanyahu and several of his team members. It was a very constructive meeting, reinforcing the strong bond between our two nations,” Trump remarked on Wednesday (local time).
This meeting in the Oval Office was Netanyahu’s fifth visit since Trump began his second term.
Trump noted that while no conclusive agreements were made, he emphasized the need for diplomatic efforts with Tehran to persist.
“Nothing definitive was decided, but I stressed that discussions with Iran should continue to explore the possibility of a deal. If achievable, I informed the Prime Minister that it would be preferred. If not, we’ll have to await the results,” he said.
Addressing past conflicts, Trump mentioned, “Previously, Iran opted not to pursue an agreement, resulting in the Midnight Hammer incident, which did not favor them. This time, I hope they will act more rationally and responsibly.”
Furthermore, the leaders talked about Gaza and broader regional issues. “We also addressed the significant advancements being made in Gaza and the overall region. There is indeed PEACE in the Middle East,” he added.
Prior to departing Israel, Netanyahu highlighted that discussions about Iran would be paramount. “During this trip, we will cover several topics, including Gaza and the region, but the primary focus will be the negotiations with Iran,” he stated.
He expressed his intent to convey Israel’s stance to the US President. “I will present our perspective regarding the fundamental principles of these negotiations — principles that are crucial not only for Israel but for everyone globally desiring peace and security in the Middle East.”
His office previously indicated, “The Prime Minister believes that any negotiations must incorporate restrictions on ballistic missiles and halt support for the Iranian axis.”
This visit follows recent indirect talks held by US officials with Iranian negotiators in Oman aimed at achieving a nuclear agreement. Trump informed Israel’s Channel 12: “The Iranians are eager to strike a deal. We either reach an agreement, or we may have to take stringent measures like last time.”
According to US officials, further negotiations are anticipated this week. Tehran has stated it will not discuss matters beyond its nuclear activities and will not abandon its right to enrich uranium.
This meeting also precedes the inaugural session of the newly established Board of Peace, slated for February 19, which aims to oversee a reconstruction initiative for Gaza.
The Trump administration facilitated a ceasefire effective October 10, 2025, under a 20-point peace framework agreed upon by Israel and Hamas.
Netanyahu, 76, has held multiple terms as Israel’s Prime Minister and currently leads a coalition government. He has consistently maintained that any agreement with Iran must address its nuclear program as well as its regional activities, a stance that has influenced Israeli policy across various US administrations.