WASHINGTON — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is expected to brief former U.S. President Donald Trump on potential new military action against Iran, as Israeli officials warn that Tehran is rapidly rebuilding and expanding its ballistic missile capabilities.
Israeli security assessments indicate that facilities damaged in earlier strikes are being restored at speed, while air defense systems hit last year are also being repaired. Officials say the missile buildup has overtaken nuclear reconstruction as the most urgent concern, arguing it could quickly shift the balance in any future confrontation.
Netanyahu and Trump are expected to meet later this month at Mar-a-Lago. During the talks, Israeli officials believe Netanyahu will argue that Iran’s expanding missile program poses risks not only to Israel but also to U.S. interests and regional stability.
Why the Missile Issue Is Front and Center
According to people familiar with Israel’s thinking, Iran could significantly increase missile output if current efforts go unchecked. A larger arsenal, they warn, would complicate defense planning and could help Tehran better shield sensitive military and nuclear infrastructure.
Netanyahu is expected to outline several response paths for Washington, ranging from limited U.S. assistance to joint operations. Similar options were discussed ahead of the June campaign known as Operation Midnight Hammer, when U.S. forces struck Iranian nuclear-related sites while Israel targeted missile locations.
Nuclear Concerns Persist, but Take a Back Seat
Israeli officials continue to monitor signs that Iran may be attempting to restore nuclear enrichment activity. However, they say missile production and air defense repairs are progressing faster and could ultimately provide cover for renewed nuclear work. U.S. officials have previously cited assessments aligned with the International Atomic Energy Agency indicating Iran’s nuclear capabilities were severely degraded earlier this year.
Diplomacy vs. Deterrence
The renewed focus on military options comes as Tehran has signaled interest in restarting talks with Washington. That diplomatic opening could complicate Israel’s push for swift action, even as Trump has warned Iran against rebuilding its missile or nuclear programs.
Beyond missiles and nuclear sites, Israeli officials remain concerned about Iran’s continued support for regional proxy groups. They fear a restored missile shield would allow Tehran to accelerate broader military ambitions with fewer constraints.
Despite confidence in Israel’s air superiority, former officials stress that missiles remain the hardest threat to neutralize. Large-scale salvos, they say, could overwhelm defenses—making the current buildup a red-line issue as Netanyahu prepares his case for Washington.