US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reportedly discussed the possibility of launching a major military operation against Iran ahead of upcoming elections in both countries, according to a report by Axios published Tuesday.
The report, citing two US officials and other sources familiar with the discussions, said the talks took place before Trump publicly ruled out attacking Iran before the US midterm elections in November. During the discussions, Netanyahu reportedly presented intelligence suggesting that Tehran was attempting to rebuild its nuclear programme, potentially including uranium enrichment activities at the Pickaxe Mountain facility.
However, a White House official rejected the report, describing claims that the two leaders had discussed restarting the war as false. The official reiterated that Trump had ruled out military action before the November midterms.
Despite the public denial, sources told Axios that American and Israeli military forces remain on alert and are preparing for a possible change in strategy. One US official said Trump had encouraged Netanyahu to prepare for potential developments without making a firm commitment to renewed strikes.
Within the Trump administration, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and senior US Central Command officials reportedly support resuming military action. Most other advisers, however, favour maintaining sanctions and economic pressure on Iran instead.
Meanwhile, Israeli military chief Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir reportedly warned US Joint Chiefs Chairman General Dan Caine that renewed fighting within three weeks could force Israel to postpone its October 27 election because of the possibility of Iranian missile retaliation.
Qatari mediators are also awaiting Tehran’s response to the latest US counterproposal as diplomatic efforts continue. The situation remains uncertain, with military preparations, political considerations and negotiations all influencing the prospects for further conflict.
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