In his sixth diplomatic visit to the United States since the start of the current administration, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met with President Donald Trump at the White House on Wednesday, February 11, 2026.
The high-stakes meeting occurred as the U.S. intensifies its military posture in the Middle East. While President Trump noted that “nothing definitive” was reached, he emphasized his insistence that diplomatic talks with Tehran regarding its nuclear program must continue.
The Negotiation Standoff: Nuclear vs. Regional Security
The primary focus of the closed-door session was the ongoing effort to curb Iran’s nuclear ambitions. Netanyahu reportedly pressed the U.S. President to expand the scope of any potential deal beyond uranium enrichment.
Israel’s “Maximalist” Demands:
- Missile Program: A total halt to Iran’s ballistic missile development.
- Proxy Support: An end to Tehran’s funding and arming of groups like Hamas and Hezbollah.
- Nuclear Verification: Stringent, permanent limits on enrichment capabilities.
In a post on Truth Social following the meeting, President Trump described the exchange as “very good.” He reiterated that while a “consummated” deal is his preference, he is prepared for alternative outcomes if diplomacy fails.
Tehran’s Defiance and Diplomatic Pressure
Ahead of the Washington talks, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian issued a stern warning during a rally in Tehran. Celebrating the 47th anniversary of the Islamic revolution, Pezeshkian stated that Iran would “not yield to excessive demands.”
However, analysts suggest Iran is currently in a vulnerable position. Following a 12-day joint U.S.-Israeli air campaign last year and significant internal civil unrest, the regime is facing immense economic and military pressure.
“The Iranian regime today is really vulnerable,” noted Mohammed Hafez, a professor at the Naval Postgraduate School. “The U.S. and Israel feel they hold all the cards.”
U.S. Military Escalation: The “Armada” Moves In
To back its diplomatic demands, the U.S. has significantly bolstered its naval presence in the region. President Trump confirmed he is considering deploying a second aircraft carrier strike group to join the USS Abraham Lincoln.
“We have an armada that is heading there,” Trump told Axios. The President has previously threatened direct strikes on Iranian infrastructure if a deal is not reached or if the regime continues its crackdown on domestic protesters.
The Gaza Peace Context
The visit also touched upon the fragile Gaza Ceasefire Agreement. While the first phase of the October 2025 deal ended the two-year war, progress on the second phase remains stalled.
Key Roadblocks to Phase Two:
- Disarmament: The full disarmament of Hamas.
- Withdrawal: The complete exit of Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) from Gaza.
- Reconstruction: Plans for the massive rebuilding of the territory.
A White House spokesperson reaffirmed that the administration continues to work closely with Israel to strengthen regional security and implement the peace roadmap.
Conclusion: A Strategic Gamble
Netanyahu’s frequent visits highlight the deep strategic alignment between the two leaders. However, experts like Daniel Byman warn that a “hasty” deal could leave regional security gaps. Netanyahu’s far-right allies continue to push for a comprehensive agreement that eliminates Iran’s regional influence entirely.
As negotiations continue, the world watches to see if President Trump can secure his “preference” for a diplomatic solution or if the “armada” in the Mediterranean will be called into action.
READ ALSO: Spain Rail Strike Suspended: Government Agrees to Major Safety Overhaul
