Netanyahu, Trump officials discuss potential joint strikes on Iran

On June 19 night, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held high-level talks with senior members of the Trump administration, amid growing speculation over a possible joint military response against Iran.

The meeting, which took place as Washington weighs its next steps, brought together Netanyahu, IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir, Defence Minister Israel Katz, Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer, and other senior Israeli officials, Caliber.Az reports, citing foreign media.

Representing the United States were Vice President JD Vance and Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, according to two sources familiar with the discussions.

The talks come as President Donald Trump considers whether the United States should participate in potential Israeli military action targeting the Islamic Republic. A final decision is expected within the next fortnight.

Speaking during a press briefing, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt relayed a message from President Trump, stating: "Based on the fact that there's a substantial chance of negotiations that may or may not take place with Iran in the near future, I will make my decision whether or not to go within the next two weeks."

Leavitt emphasised that while Trump remained open to diplomacy, preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons remains his top national security priority. Meanwhile, the Pentagon is moving additional military assets into the region.

Three US aircraft carriers are expected to be deployed, alongside ten military cargo aircraft currently en route to US Central Command bases across the Middle East.

The developments underscore the rising stakes in the region, as both Washington and Jerusalem signal their readiness to escalate pressure on Tehran should diplomatic efforts stall.

By Aghakazim Guliyev