Trump, Netanyahu Hold Second Call in 48 Hours as U.S. Weighs Iran Strike Options

WASHINGTON D.C (VINnews) — President Trump spoke by phone Thursday evening with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to discuss the ongoing situation in Iran, according to two sources familiar with the conversation.

The call marked their second discussion in two days as Trump weighs options for potential military action or diplomatic engagement with Iran’s regime, which has faced widespread protests and internal upheaval.

During their initial conversation on Wednesday, Netanyahu urged Trump to delay any U.S. military strike against Iran. The request was intended to provide Israel additional time to prepare for possible Iranian retaliation, sources said.

That appeal was a key factor in Trump’s decision to postpone orders for U.S. forces to proceed with a strike, according to officials briefed on the matter.

U.S. officials emphasized that military action remains under consideration should Iran resume violent suppression of protesters, including killings. Israeli officials, meanwhile, believe a U.S. strike could still occur in the coming days despite the current delay.

The discussions come amid reports that Iran has halted planned executions and reduced lethal force against demonstrators, information that Trump cited Wednesday as a reason for stepping back from immediate action. White House officials have confirmed ongoing monitoring of the situation, with all options still on the table.

Trump has repeatedly warned Tehran of severe consequences if the crackdown continues, while highlighting intelligence indicating a temporary pause in the violence.

The phone calls reflect close coordination between Washington and Jerusalem on the Iranian crisis, with Netanyahu maintaining frequent contact with Trump administration officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, in recent days.

Arab nations, including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman and Egypt, have also urged the U.S. to refrain from strikes to avoid broader regional escalation, according to diplomatic sources.

The situation in Iran remains fluid, with protests entering their second week amid reports of thousands of deaths and ongoing internet restrictions.