Netanyahu Urges Trump to Resume Iran Strikes
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reportedly urged US President Donald Trump to resume military strikes against Iran immediately after the November 3, 2026, midterm elections. The proposal was discussed during a telephone conversation on Saturday, October 31, as Washington continued diplomatic efforts to negotiate an agreement with Tehran. Trump, however, reportedly favours giving negotiations more time before deciding on further military action.
Netanyahu Presses Trump for Fresh Military Action
The conversation reportedly exposed differences between Washington and Tel Aviv over how to address Iran’s nuclear programme and regional military activities.
Sources familiar with the discussions described the exchange as direct and difficult, with Netanyahu advocating renewed military pressure.
However, Trump told reporters in Iowa on Sunday that he had a very good conversation with Netanyahu and confirmed that Iran was among the subjects discussed.
Neither government has publicly confirmed the reported disagreement.
Trump Keeps Military and Diplomatic Options Open
Trump said negotiations with Iran were progressing but questioned Tehran’s willingness to honour a potential agreement.
He also indicated that American military planners had prepared options for striking additional Iranian nuclear facilities, including the suspected underground site known as Pickaxe Mountain.
Despite these remarks, Washington has not announced a decision to resume military operations.
Qatar Mediates as Iran Seeks Diplomatic Agreement
Diplomatic efforts have continued through Qatar, where mediators have held discussions with Iranian officials about restarting direct negotiations.
US Vice President JD Vance also reportedly contacted Iranian national security chief Mohsen Rezaei to explore possible diplomatic engagement.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi confirmed that consultations were continuing but said no agreement had been reached.
Tehran has indicated that reopening the Strait of Hormuz could form part of a broader arrangement, subject to conditions being met by Washington.
The developments leave the possibility of renewed conflict unresolved as the United States approaches its congressional elections.
