Trump Nears Major Decision on Iran War, Hints at Netanyahu Meeting

WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump has said he is approaching a major decision on whether to resume large-scale military operations against Iran, while also indicating that he could meet Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during the upcoming UN General Assembly in New York.

Trump made the remarks in a phone interview with Israeli journalist Barak Ravid, saying a major decision was approaching on the future course of the Iran war.

He also indicated that he wants to hear directly from Gulf leaders before deciding whether to launch another major military campaign against Iran.

Trump to Consult Gulf Leaders

Trump is expected to meet representatives of the six Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly next week.

The six countries are Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait and Oman. According to Axios, the meeting is expected to focus on the next stage of the Iran conflict and the Trump administration’s plans for the period following the war.

Trump has indicated that the views and security concerns of his Gulf partners will be an important factor before he decides on further military action.

The discussions come after Gulf countries expressed concern that a renewed US offensive could trigger Iranian retaliation against their territory and energy infrastructure.

Netanyahu Seeks Meeting With Trump

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is also seeking a meeting with Trump in New York during the UN General Assembly.

Asked whether he would meet Netanyahu, Trump indicated that it was possible, although a meeting had not been formally scheduled at the time of the latest reports.

The potential meeting could provide an opportunity for the two leaders to discuss Iran, regional security and the next phase of the conflict.

Major Decision on Iran

Trump said he was considering whether to launch another large-scale campaign against Iran, making clear that no final decision had yet been announced.

His comments came after he said earlier that he hoped the Iran war was approaching its end, while also saying Tehran wanted to reach a deal.

The conflicting signals have left the future direction of US policy toward Iran uncertain, with diplomacy and military escalation both remaining possibilities.

Regional Tensions Continue

The possible decision comes as tensions have spread beyond the direct US-Iran confrontation.

The Houthi militia has expanded military operations around Yemen and the Red Sea, while Saudi Arabia has faced attacks attributed to the group. The developments have raised concerns over the security of major energy and shipping routes.

The United States has also maintained a significant military presence in the region while pursuing diplomatic contacts aimed at preventing further escalation.

No Final Decision Yet

For now, Trump has not announced a final decision on whether to resume large-scale attacks against Iran.

The upcoming discussions with Gulf leaders and the possible meeting with Netanyahu could provide further indications of Washington’s next steps.

Meanwhile, Iran has continued diplomatic engagement with regional and international partners, while the possibility of renewed military escalation remains unresolved.