President Donald Trump stated he “insisted” to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that U.S. Talks with Iran continue, following a three-hour private meeting at the White House on Wednesday, February 11, 2026. The assertion came as Netanyahu sought to persuade the U.S. To adopt a harder line against Tehran, including stricter limitations on its nuclear program and its support for regional proxy groups.
While Trump characterized the meeting as “very decent” in a post on Truth Social, the exchange underscored a growing divergence in strategy between Washington and Jerusalem regarding Iran. Netanyahu’s office indicated he presented Trump with Israel’s “principles” for negotiations, emphasizing the need to address not only Iran’s uranium enrichment activities but also its ballistic missile program and backing of organizations like Hamas, and Hezbollah.
The U.S. President’s insistence on continuing negotiations, despite Israeli concerns, signals a preference for a diplomatic solution, at least for the time being. However, Trump simultaneously indicated a willingness to accept action if a deal cannot be reached, announcing the deployment of a second carrier strike group to the Gulf. This dual approach – pursuing talks while demonstrating military readiness – reflects a calculated ambiguity intended to pressure Iran, according to analysts.
Iran has signaled a willingness to limit its nuclear program in exchange for sanctions relief, but has rejected demands to curtail its missile program or cease support for regional allies. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian warned ahead of the meeting that his country “would not yield to their excessive demands.”
The meeting took place amid rising tensions in the Middle East and intensified negotiations over curbing Iran’s nuclear weapons program. Netanyahu’s visit marked his sixth trip to the U.S. Since Trump’s return to office, more than any other world leader. The leaders spoke privately, with no joint press conference following the discussion.
The possibility that ongoing U.S.-Iran negotiations may not address Iran’s ballistic missile program is a particular concern for Israel, as it places Israeli cities within range of Iranian missiles. This concern was reportedly discussed during the meeting, with Netanyahu seeking assurances that this issue would be prioritized.
Trump indicated he expects a second round of talks with Iran next week, but offered no details on the agenda or potential outcomes. His administration has previously stated a desire for a deal that eliminates all bans on nuclear and missile weapons, a position that appears to diverge from Israel’s more comprehensive demands.
Netanyahu’s office stated that the leaders discussed “the security needs of the State of Israel in the context of the negotiations” and agreed to continue their “close coordination and relationship.” However, the lack of a public display of unity suggests underlying tensions remain.
