Trump administration hosts Israel, Saudi officials for Iran talks as strike option considered, Axios reports

Washington, United States. The Trump administration is hosting senior defense and intelligence officials from Israel and Saudi Arabia for talks on Iran this week as U.S. President Donald Trump considers military strikes, Axios reported on Thursday. Reuters said it could not immediately verify the report.

Report and official responses

Axios cited people familiar with the matter. The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment, according to Reuters.

Background on potential military action

Uncertainty over the possibility of military action in Iran has lingered after Trump said last week that an “armada” was heading toward the country but that he hoped he would not have to use it.

Israel and Saudi Arabia positions in talks

According to Axios, Israeli officials traveled to Washington to share intelligence on potential targets inside Iran. The report said Saudi officials sought to help avert a wider regional war by pushing for a diplomatic solution.

Saudi statement on airspace and territory

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman told Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian that Riyadh would not allow its airspace or territory to be used for military actions against Tehran, state news agency SPA reported earlier this week.

What do you think these talks signal about the likelihood of a diplomatic outcome with Iran?