Feb 8 • 20:09 UTC 🇶🇦 Qatar Al Jazeera

Why did Netanyahu hasten his visit to Washington and is he risking unilateral action against Iran?

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is making an urgent visit to Washington to discuss U.S. policy toward Iran amid rising Israeli concerns about diplomatic negotiations between the U.S. and Tehran.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is set to make an urgent visit to Washington to meet with President Donald Trump amid deep Israeli concerns about the evolving diplomatic negotiations between the United States and Iran. The visit is described as a preemptive move to shape American policy toward Tehran, reflecting the high levels of anxiety within Israel regarding the potential outcomes of U.S.-Iran negotiations. Israeli media has reported that the visit comes at a highly sensitive time when the American administration is reportedly divided on the best approach to handle its diplomatic ties with Iran.

The concerns highlighted by Israeli security officials include a perceived 'existential threat' posed by Iran's nuclear program. Netanyahu aims to leverage his personal relationship with Trump in this emergency meeting to ensure that U.S. policy maintains its 'red lines' established in previous discussions. Israeli press indicates that Netanyahu is determined to prevent any drift in negotiations that might lead to an inadequate agreement, which could compromise Israel's national security, as tensions remain high in the region.

Key demands from Netanyahu during this visit include extracting enriched uranium from Iran, zeroing enrichment capabilities, and limiting the extent of Iran's missile development program. Netanyahu's visit underscores the complexities and strains in U.S.-Iran relations, as well as Israel's proactive stance in attempting to influence that diplomacy to safeguard its national interests and security against potential threats from Tehran.

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