Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu pursued diplomatic engagement with key members of Donald Trump's former administration during a funeral service in Washington on Tuesday, while a segment of Republican lawmakers voiced concerns about Israel's actions potentially drawing the United States into a broader conflict with Iran.
Netanyahu attended the funeral for the late Senator Lindsey Graham at Washington National Cathedral, where he was observed interacting with prominent figures including Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, and White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles. He also spoke with Secretary of War Pete Hegseth and his wife, as well as Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche, among others. These interactions occurred following a meeting with former President Trump.
Despite the public displays of engagement, private apprehension is reportedly growing among some conservative lawmakers. They are concerned that Netanyahu's assertive stance on the conflict could lead to the U.S. becoming involved in a protracted military campaign across the Middle East. These concerns are amplified by public sentiment ahead of the U.S. midterm elections, with an awareness of voter hesitance regarding deep foreign entanglements and economic strain.
Donald Trump acknowledged a divergence in strategy regarding the next steps in the campaign against Iran, stating that while he and Netanyahu had "a little difference" on the matter, their core positions remained "pretty close." This meeting was the eighth face-to-face encounter between the two leaders since Trump's return to the White House and the first in-person meeting since February 11, when Netanyahu reportedly presented Trump and national security officials with military strike options and advocated for regime change in Iran. The previous February meeting preceded what was described as a joint U.S.-Israeli air campaign.
Both leaders share a common objective of preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. However, they appear to differ on the scope, timing, and ultimate strategic aims of future military actions. The pressure on both leaders is heightened by upcoming general elections in Israel at the end of October, with Netanyahu trailing in some domestic polls. Netanyahu characterized his trip to Washington as crucial for Israel's national survival, with discussions focused on Iran and ensuring the security of the State of Israel. He also paid respects to Senator Graham, whom he described as one of Israel's "greatest friends."