Military Action Still Possible Despite Iran Diplomacy: Report

JERUSALEM, Jul 5: A military option against Iran remains under consideration as senior Israeli officials prepare for high-level consultations in Washington amid growing concerns over US-Iran nuclear negotiations, according to a report by Israeli broadcaster i24NEWS.

Citing a source familiar with the matter, the report said Israeli officials continue to view military action as a possible option while diplomatic efforts over Iran's nuclear program remain uncertain.

Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar is expected to travel to Washington in about a week and a half for talks with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Sources said Sa’ar has received an official invitation, although his office noted that he has not yet confirmed whether he will make the trip.

Discussions are also underway regarding a possible visit by Defense Minister Israel Katz, while senior Israeli defense officials are expected to travel to the US as part of what sources described as an ongoing series of diplomatic and security consultations.

According to the report, the planned visits come amid concerns over the progress of US-Iran negotiations and reports of difficulties in the talks.

The report added that the ministerial visits could be postponed or canceled if a meeting between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and US President Donald Trump is scheduled in the near future.