September 11, 2012

WASHINGTON (JTA) — President Obama spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu about Iran and the White House denied that the prime minister requested a Washington meeting.

“The two leaders discussed the threat posed by Iran’s nuclear program, and our close cooperation on Iran and other security issues,” said a statement issued Tuesday night by the White House. “President Obama and Prime Minister Netanyahu reaffirmed that they are united in their determination to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon, and agreed to continue their close consultations going forward.”

The statement comes amid more frequent reports of tensions between the two governments, with Netanyahu demanding from Obama clearer red lines that could trigger military action against Iran, and the Obama administration refusing to outline these.

Israel fears that Iran is approaching the point of obtaining a nuclear weapon.

The White House statement also denied reports that Netanyahu requested a Washington meeting later this month.

“Contrary to reports in the press, there was never a request for Prime Minister Netanyahu to meet with President Obama in Washington, nor was a request for a meeting ever denied,” it said.

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