Netanyahu uncertain of Trump's ultimate decision on Iran, report says

2026-02-06 - 00:05

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has expressed uncertainty about the ultimate direction of US policy toward Iran, according to reports from a closed parliamentary session. In remarks to the Knesset's Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee on Thursday, Netanyahu indicated that, despite close coordination, Trump's final decision remains unclear to Israeli leadership. Uncertainty Amidst High-Level Coordination Citing a report from Israel's Channel 12, Netanyahu told committee members that military and diplomatic coordination with the United States was at "the highest possible level." However, he conceded he did not know what final course of action President Trump would ultimately choose regarding Iran, as Washington prepares for planned talks with Tehran in Oman. The Prime Minister also speculated about conditions emerging for a "critical phase" that could challenge Iran's ruling system, though he was unsure it would lead to its overthrow. Warning of Escalated Military Response In the same meeting, Netanyahu issued a stern warning regarding potential conflict. He stated that Israel is prepared to execute a "much larger and harsher" strike against Iran if attacked, asserting that any retaliation would surpass the scale of Israeli operations conducted last June. This declaration underscores the persistent high-stakes military posture between the two regional adversaries. Shift in Cabinet Meeting Agenda Interestingly, Israeli media noted that Iran was barely discussed during a separate security cabinet meeting that concluded late Thursday, contrary to expectations. Instead, the cabinet's focus reportedly shifted to the financial situation of the Palestinian Authority, particularly regarding tax revenues withheld by Israel, indicating a diversified agenda for Israeli security deliberations.