May 18, 2026 10:16 am
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May 18, 2026 10:16 am

Netanyahu discusses Iran situation with Trump as strike preparations surface

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held a phone conversation with US President Donald Trump on Sunday evening to discuss the ongoing conflict with Iran, according to confirmation from Netanyahu’s office to The Times of Israel.

Reports from Hebrew media indicate that the two leaders talked about the potential resumption of military action against Iran, as well as Trump’s recent visit to China. Following the call, Netanyahu was expected to meet with senior ministers and advisers for a high-level security consultation in Jerusalem.

These meetings, often referred to as the “small security cabinet,” typically include key figures such as Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar, Defense Minister Israel Katz, Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, and Shas leader Aryeh Deri. The discussions come amid reports that Israel and the United States have been making intensive preparations to renew strikes on Iran, possibly within days.

Tensions have further escalated after a drone attack targeted a nuclear facility in the United Arab Emirates. The UAE, along with Israel, has been among the countries most affected by Iranian actions during the conflict.

Meanwhile, Trump is expected to convene his national security team in the Situation Room on Tuesday to evaluate military options regarding Iran, according to Axios, citing US officials. Although negotiations between Washington and Tehran have stalled since a ceasefire took effect on April 8, Trump reportedly believes Iran may still be open to a deal. However, he has issued a stark warning, urging swift action from Iranian leadership.

“For Iran, the clock is ticking,” Trump wrote on social media. “They must move fast, or there may be nothing left. Time is of the essence.”

Earlier, during his weekly cabinet meeting, Netanyahu emphasized Israel’s vigilance toward Iran, stating, “Our eyes are open.” He added that he intended to hear Trump’s insights from his China trip, noting that multiple scenarios remain possible and Israel is prepared for all of them.

Trump recently visited China for a summit with President Xi Jinping, where discussions reportedly included the Strait of Hormuz — a vital global oil route currently blocked by Iran. Trump said Xi had expressed willingness to help reopen the passage and pledged not to provide military support to Iran.

After returning, Trump shared an AI-generated image on social media depicting himself alongside a US Navy admiral against a backdrop of turbulent seas and warships, including one bearing the Iranian flag. The image carried the caption: “It was the calm before the storm.”

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Phatam Bahadur Gurung

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