Netanyahu wants another war, Trump must resist

November 3, 2026

Israel seems unwilling to let the Middle East breathe. Even when diplomatic efforts offer a chance to reduce tensions with Iran, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu appears more interested in reopening the doors of war. His reported appeal to US President Donald Trump to resume military strikes against Iran after the November 3 midterm elections is another example of this dangerous approach.

According to Axios, Netanyahu urged Trump during a telephone conversation on Saturday to restart military operations. But Trump appears to be showing some interest in diplomacy and has indicated that he is not in a hurry to attack Iran again.

For once, Trump must listen to his own country’s interests rather than Netanyahu’s demands.

The United States has already paid a heavy price for allowing Israeli security priorities to shape its regional policies. Military confrontation does not come cheap. It costs American money, damages its international standing, creates instability and puts the lives of American personnel at risk. It can also send oil prices soaring, hurt global trade and increase the economic burden on ordinary Americans.

What does Netanyahu want to achieve by pushing Washington towards another confrontation? Israel cannot build lasting security by keeping its neighbours under military pressure. Nor can it expect the region to remain peaceful while repeatedly encouraging military escalation.

Trump, who has often presented himself as a leader capable of making deals, should understand that another war with Iran could become a costly trap. Starting a conflict is easier than deciding when and how to end it.

There is, meanwhile, a diplomatic opening. Vice President JD Vance has reportedly been involved in communication with Iranian officials, while Qatar is working to bring Washington and Tehran back to direct negotiations. Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi says Tehran is waiting for an American response to outstanding issues.

The reported incident involving a vessel in the Strait of Hormuz adds to the urgency. Any escalation there could threaten one of the world’s most important oil shipping routes.

Trump must make a choice: pursue peace in America’s interest or follow Netanyahu into another dangerous adventure. Washington should not allow Israel’s appetite for confrontation to become America’s next expensive mistake.