Trump Seeks Iran Deal, Netanyahu Pushes Military Escalation

Trump has shifted toward seeking an agreement with Iran despite four weeks of war.

“Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Trump's partner in attacking Iran, said more than half of his military aims had been achieved, but both leaders refused to put a timeline on an operation that has ignited a month-long regional war and jolted global markets”

Euronews

The Foundation for Defense of Democracies reported Trump is pursuing a better deal, while Netanyahu remains skeptical.

Euronews

Channel 12 said Netanyahu is expressing fear that the American president may strike a deal that does not meet Israel's goals.

The White House believes Trump's operational objective is limited to destroying missiles, nuclear capabilities, naval forces, and cutting proxies' arms.

Trump and Netanyahu agreed to escalate economic pressure on Iran by targeting its oil exports to China.

China imports more than 80% of Iranian oil.

Lebanon Debate

This step could become a flashpoint with China, complicating the tense relationship.

Obama warned attempts to renegotiate the JCPOA would probably fail unless accompanied by real humiliations.

Netanyahu continued escalating on the ground despite Trump's move toward diplomacy.

“Amid accelerating diplomatic efforts and escalating confrontation, Channel 12 reported today, Wednesday, that American and Israeli officials estimate that the war with Iran could continue for a period of two to three weeks, even if cease-fire talks with Tehran begin”

Lebanon Debate

Netanyahu set objectives to achieve before Washington stops firing.

Hezbollah's unexpected entry into the war shifted the campaign from regime demolition toward corridor control.

The war triggered an insurgency in Iraq and Lebanon.

Attacks on US installations killed at least five American service members.

Al-Jazeera Net

The economic cost soared over $1 trillion.

The straits of Hormuz and Tiran remained closed.