Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met (Tuesday) at the White House with U.S. President Donald Trump. Insiders say the Trump-Netanyahu meeting focused on “opportunities” in the Middle East. One such opportunity – making sure Iran never gets nuclear weapons.
On the Israeli side, the meeting includeed the military secretary, the head of the National Security Council, and Israeli Ambassador to the United States Yechiel Leiter. On the American side: Vice President J.D. Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, CIA Director John Ratcliffe, and Presidential Envoy Steve Witkoff.
5+Intelligence on “Crushing Mountain”
According to a report in the New York Post, Netanyahu presented Trump with new and sensitive intelligence on nuclear activity at “Crushing Mountain,” near the nuclear facility in Natanz. According to published Israeli intelligence assessments, centrifuges have been transferred to the site, and the prime minister presented data and evidence of the activity taking place there.
5+Shortly before the meeting, Trump addressed the issue in an interview with Fox News and said: “I don’t need Bibi to tell me that (what’s happening there). We have the best cameras in the world focused there and we know exactly what’s going on.” A White House official claimed the remarks were meant to send a strong message to Netanyahu, especially against the backdrop of reports and leaks regarding the information he would present at the meeting.
Trump downplayed the significance of the activity at the site, saying “it’s not a big deal.” He added that the United States could quickly strike bridges, power stations, and other infrastructure in Iran, but made clear: “I want to avoid that. I’m not interested in doing that.” According to him, “Iran wants to talk. There’s a possibility we’ll make a deal.”
Excellent Chemistry
The two also discussed the partnership between Israel and the US, which remains stronger than ever, as well as various opportunities across the Middle East. Insider sources say that saying “It was a very positive meeting held in good spirits alongside senior administration officials. The excellent chemistry between the leaders was evident.”
5+Before flying to Washington, Netanyahu said: “On all the issues on the agenda, and first and foremost Iran. Of course our goal is to maintain our security and also expand the circle of peace around us. I’m going on this mission with one clear goal – to ensure the security, strength, and future of our dear State of Israel.”
Netanyahu at Event Honoring Senator Graham
During the visit, Netanyahu and his wife Sara attended a dinner in Washington honoring Senator Lindsey Graham. The event was attended by the late senator’s family members and close friends, alongside senior administration officials and members of Congress. Participants spoke about his legacy, the fight against antisemitism, and strengthening the alliance between Israel and the United States.
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5+Netanyahu spoke with Graham’s sister, Darlene Graham Nordone, and with his family members. In his remarks he said: “America lost a great patriot. Israel lost one of its greatest friends and supporters. And I lost a dear friend.
5+Lindsey was committed with all his might to the security of the United States, to the security of Israel, and to the relentless fight against antisemitism. I will miss him greatly, and we will all miss him greatly.”