Netanyahu's diplomatic victories during his Washington visit come with expiration dates - analysis

Benjamin Netanyahu returned to Israel from Washington having seemingly achieved all his diplomatic objectives during his visit. The Israeli prime minister secured a smiling photo opportunity with U.S. President Donald Trump, reaffirmed Iran as a top priority, and navigated complex relationships with U.S. officials.

However, the article suggests these public relations victories may be temporary, especially with Netanyahu facing a critical reelection campaign on October 27. His rivals argue that his influence in Washington has waned. Aaron David Miller, a veteran Middle East negotiator, commented that Netanyahu hopes Trump will act as a de facto campaign headquarters in Washington for the next three months.

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Netanyahu’s expectation and hope is that Trump will establish, figuratively speaking, a re-elect Benjamin Netanyahu headquarters in Washington for the next three months.

Netanyahu expressed satisfaction with his meeting with Trump, stating it was one of the best he had ever had. He clarified that he was not seeking to draw the U.S. into a wider war but aimed for alignment on how to address Iran's nuclear program. Netanyahu outlined three potential options discussed with Trump: a deal, a continued blockade, or military action, all aimed at preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons.

The core issue for Netanyahu is that any deal Trump might pursue could be unsatisfactory to Israel. A memorandum of understanding reached in June reportedly allows Iran a role in controlling the Strait of Hormuz. While Israeli officials privately doubt this deal will materialize, preferring options two and three (blockade or military action), Trump's declining popularity ahead of U.S. midterm elections and persistent inflation could complicate his approach.

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One, to indeed succeed making a deal; two, to continue a blockade; three, to take military action. Anything that will produce the end of Iran’s nuclear program is what we want. That’s our common goal. We talked about it.