How to stop Iran’s nuclear weapons program will be the focus of discussions when Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visits with Pres. Obama at the White House. Netanyahu is in Washington to meet with members of congress and the administration.
The Netanyahu-Obama meeting is focusing on the Iranian nuclear weapons issue. The U.S. and Israel have both stated that they are in full agreement towards the goal of preventing Iran's nuclear armament and issuing strong sanctions.
Both leaders are also working on a timetable for negotiations with Iran and steps towards success. Israel is concerned that extended negotiations will eliminate opportunity for a military action in Iran.
Last week, North Korea offered to open its nuclear program to international inspectors in exchange for food. At the same time, Israel is threatening to take military action against Iran as international efforts to contain Tehran's nuclear program remain deadlocked.
Ahead of Netanyahu’s visit to the White House, Israel’s deputy foreign minister assessed that economic pressure which appeared to have brought a breakthrough in nuclear negotiations with North Korea is unlikely to work on Iran.
Sunday, President Obama addressed the annual policy conference of the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) in Washington. He said his policy toward Iran is not one of containment but of preventing the nation from developing a nuclear weapon. He also defended his policies toward Israel and stated the U.S. commitment to preserve Israel’s security.