Trump speaks to Netanyahu as US weighs fresh military strikes on Iran: Report

On Saturday, President Donald Trump spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over the phone, as US officials evaluated potential military actions against Iran, according to a report from The Wall Street Journal. This call followed a meeting at the White House where Trump discussed possible military operations with senior military commanders.

The US is simultaneously exploring talks with Iran while keeping military strikes on the table. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio clarified that diplomatic talks with Iran have not ceased, but Trump has not yet decided on resuming military action. Rubio stated that talks are ongoing, both directly and through intermediaries, and that if a diplomatic solution was reached, the US would be open to it.

The talks must address Iran's nuclear program and its support for regional armed groups. Iran has threatened commercial shipping and disrupted maritime trade. While the US believes it can achieve its military objectives if necessary, the President has not made a decision on resuming strikes. The US and Israel reportedly have plans for renewed strikes after the midterm elections, although official confirmation remains uncertain.

Iran's top security official, Mohsen Rezaei, welcomed the US Vice President's letter as a positive sign, suggesting that Iran had secured a victory. However, Iranian Supreme Leader Khamenei warned that Iran's armed forces would respond to any military or terrorist attacks by the US or Israel.