In Washington, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office has pushed back against a report claiming that national security adviser Mike Waltz had substantial communication with him.
The “Washington Post report” stated that Netanyahu had extensive interactions with Waltz regarding Iran. However, the Prime Minister’s office clarified that this was not the case. They emphasized that Netanyahu only had a cordial meeting with Waltz and another official, Steve Witkoff, in February before a separate meeting with President Trump.
Additionally, they noted that Waltz had attended a meeting with Vice President JD Vance and Netanyahu before leaving Washington. There was also a phone conversation between Waltz and Witkoff post this meeting, but it did not focus on Iran.
This statement stands in contrast to remarks from several senior officials within the White House who reportedly suggested that Waltz was looking to steer U.S. policy in a more aggressive direction concerning Iran, without pursuing diplomatic avenues.
One anonymous source mentioned that Waltz aimed for a policy shift that Trump was uncomfortable with, noting that the administration had not yet sought diplomatic solutions.
On Tuesday, the former national security adviser told the Post that Trump was committed to exploring “all options” regarding Iran, reiterating that nuclear weapons must not be allowed to fall into their hands. Waltz expressed that Trump has consistently held this position.
Meanwhile, Trump recently mentioned that while Netanyahu might contemplate military action, the U.S. wouldn’t be dragged into a war with Iran. He noted that if negotiations break down, he might be open to military responses but would prefer a diplomatic resolution over conflict.
A little earlier, there were warnings from UN nuclear watchdogs that Iran was nearing uranium enrichment levels suitable for weapons production.
In April, Netanyahu stated that if actions hadn’t been taken, “Iran would have had nuclear weapons 10 years ago.”
Recently appointed Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed that Waltz is now serving as acting national security adviser, a role he shares with his appointment as U.S. ambassador to the United Nations, marking a rare dual role since Henry Kissinger.
Trump praised Waltz’s commitment to national interests in his new positions, and Netanyahu’s office congratulated him on his appointment.
As of now, representatives for the White House, Waltz, and Witkoff have not responded to requests for further clarification.
