Trump assures Netanyahu of US backing for strike on Iran's if talks fail: report

Washington (Web Desk): US President Donald Trump told Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in a December meeting that the United States would stand behind Israel if it decides to strike Iran’s ballistic missile facilities, should diplomatic efforts fail, according to a report by an American news channel which cited several sources briefed on the discussions.

The report comes as US and Iranian officials are preparing to resume indirect talks on Tuesday in Geneva, with mediation once again being facilitated by Oman. The upcoming round marks a continuation of cautious engagement between the two sides amid persistent tensions.

According to those familiar with the matter, conversations within Washington have shifted focus. Rather than debating Israel’s capability to carry out such an operation, officials are now weighing how the United States could assist, both technically and diplomatically. Among the options reportedly discussed is providing aerial refueling support to expand the operational range of Israeli fighter jets.

Another significant hurdle involves securing permission for aircraft to pass through regional airspace.

However, Jordan, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have indicated they would not allow their skies to be used for strikes against Iran, complicating potential planning.

The revelations surface at a time when the United States has reinforced its military footprint in the region. The carrier strike group led by the USS Abraham Lincoln is already positioned in the area, while the USS Gerald R. Ford is preparing for deployment.

Speaking on Sunday, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized that President Trump favors a diplomatic solution to the standoff with Iran.

He added that envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are currently engaged in key meetings, though he acknowledged that the final outcome of the diplomatic push remains uncertain.

Together, the parallel pursuit of negotiations and the bolstering of military readiness illustrate Washington’s dual-track strategy in addressing concerns over Iran’s nuclear ambitions and missile development.