WASHINGTON: Reuters reports that despite a show of unity between U.S. President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu following successful attacks on Iran’s nuclear facilities, diplomatic sources indicate that Washington and Tel Aviv differ on how to ultimately resolve the Iran crisis.
Trump seeks limited diplomacy to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, while Netanyahu advocates for renewed military action and regime change, insisting that Tehran must completely abandon its enrichment program.
Netanyahu has expressed dissatisfaction with the U.S. negotiations with Iran in Norway, fearing the economic and political revival of the Islamic Republic.
A similar rift exists regarding Gaza: Trump favors a ceasefire, whereas Netanyahu insists on the complete destruction of Hamas and the exile of its leadership.
Netanyahu is pursuing a “Libyan model” for Iran, which entails the complete dismantling of nuclear and missile programs under international oversight. Israel aims for regime change in Iran but requires the green light from the White House.
Trump, looking for a diplomatic achievement to present in the elections, even shows a willingness to lift sanctions, but Western officials warn that Iran may buy time by dragging out negotiations.
In this context, Israel continues periodic attacks, considering itself the region’s uncontested military power, while Trump is hesitant to lead the U.S. into a large-scale war.
Analysts suggest that Netanyahu lacks a practical plan for regime change, as he neither possesses sufficient ground forces nor an effective opposition. The result is a fragile stalemate with an uncertain future.
Reuters notes that Netanyahu views the current moment as a strategic opportunity, believing that a final blow must be delivered before Iran can regroup.
