U.S.-Israel Talks Focus on Iran Nuclear Negotiations

On February 11, 2026, U.S. President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met for over two hours at the White House to discuss ongoing negotiations with Iran regarding its nuclear program. Trump emphasized the importance of continuing talks with Tehran, stating that he insisted on this during their meeting. While Netanyahu did not publicly comment on the discussions, Trump described the meeting as “very good” and expressed hope for a potential deal, although he acknowledged that nothing definitive was reached.

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The backdrop of this meeting includes recent indirect talks between the U.S. and Iran held in Oman, which have generated cautious optimism. Trump has shifted his approach towards Iran, moving from military threats over its internal protests to a pressure campaign aimed at securing a nuclear deal. This comes after a violent conflict in June 2025, where U.S. airstrikes on Iranian nuclear sites resulted in significant casualties, with nearly 1,000 people killed in Iran and about 40 in Israel. Despite claims from Trump that these strikes "obliterated" Iran's nuclear capabilities, satellite imagery suggests ongoing activity at these sites.

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Netanyahu's agenda during the meeting included advocating for a tougher U.S. stance on Iran's ballistic missile program and its support for militant groups like Hamas and Hezbollah. He expressed his intention to present essential principles for negotiations that he believes are crucial for regional peace and security. Netanyahu's office indicated that he would highlight concerns regarding Iran's missile arsenal, which has been a significant issue following the recent conflict.

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Trump reiterated that any agreement with Iran must ensure "no nuclear weapons, no missiles," reflecting a hardline stance on the negotiations. He also mentioned the possibility of deploying a second U.S. aircraft carrier to the Middle East as a means of exerting pressure on Iran. Meanwhile, a U.S. official clarified that Trump does not support Israel's annexation of the West Bank, aiming for stability in the region without directly criticizing Israeli policies.

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The meeting occurs amid international criticism of Israel's actions in the occupied West Bank, particularly regarding new measures that allow settlers to purchase land directly from Palestinian owners. While the U.S. administration has not publicly condemned these actions, the situation remains a point of contention in U.S.-Israel relations.

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Following this meeting, Trump plans to convene the first session of his Board of Peace, initially intended to oversee the U.S.-brokered Gaza ceasefire but now expanded to address broader global crises. The outcomes of the discussions between Trump and Netanyahu could significantly influence future U.S. policy towards Iran and the broader Middle East.

The Hindu

• “If it can, I let the Prime Minister know that will be a preference,” — Donald Trump, U.S. President

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• “I will present to the president our views regarding the principles for the negotiations,” — Benjamin Netanyahu, Israeli Prime Minister

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• “We have an armada that is heading there and another one might be going.” — Donald Trump, U.S. President

RTE (Radio Television of Ireland)

• “It’s got to be a good deal. No nuclear weapons, no missiles.” — Donald Trump, U.S. President

The Hindu