Trump Greenlit Iran Strike After Netanyahu Call, Sources Say

Less than 48 hours before the start of a U.S.-Israeli strike on Iran, Trump and Netanyahu reportedly held a phone call in which they discussed the rationale for a complex military operation. According to Reuters reporting, the conversation came as both leaders were briefed on intelligence indicating that Iran’s top leadership, including Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, was expected to gather in Tehran.

The intelligence reportedly suggested that the Iranian leadership meeting had been rescheduled to an earlier time, creating a potential window of vulnerability. Such a scenario is often referred to by military analysts as a “decapitation strike,” aimed at eliminating senior leadership to disrupt command and control.

Reuters reporting indicates that this intelligence played a role in shaping the urgency of the discussions between Trump and Netanyahu.

During the call, Netanyahu allegedly argued that the moment presented a rare opportunity to target Khamenei and respond to past Iranian actions, including alleged plots against Trump. Reuters sources noted that Netanyahu framed the operation as both strategically advantageous and historically significant.

The Israeli leader reportedly emphasized that eliminating Iran’s leadership could potentially shift regional dynamics and weaken Iran’s influence across the Middle East.

According to Reuters, Trump had already approved the general concept of a military operation but had not finalized timing or conditions for execution. Meanwhile, U.S. military forces had been building a regional presence, signaling preparation for possible escalation.

Reuters sources described the Netanyahu call as a key moment in Trump’s decision-making process, though it remains unclear how directly it influenced the final order.

The strikes reportedly began shortly after the intelligence window narrowed. Trump later announced that Khamenei had been killed, while White House statements described the operation as targeting Iran’s missile capabilities, naval assets, and nuclear infrastructure.

Neither Netanyahu’s office nor Iranian representatives provided immediate responses to Reuters’ requests for comment.

Reuters reporting highlights that the operation reflects broader U.S.-Israel coordination amid rising tensions with Iran. Analysts cited in the report suggest the operation may have been influenced by multiple factors, including intelligence developments, regional military positioning, and long-standing strategic objectives.

The report also notes that both sides had previously engaged in joint planning efforts, and that Iran’s ballistic missile program and regional proxy networks were key concerns for both Washington and Tel Aviv.