U.S. President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have agreed to intensify economic pressure on Iran, with a particular focus on curbing Tehran’s oil exports to China. The understanding was reached during their meeting at the White House last Wednesday, according to a report published Saturday by Axios and cited by Anadolu Agency. Two U.S. officials briefed on the meeting confirmed the consensus on applying maximum pressure against Iran.

Despite the agreement on overall strategy, the two leaders reportedly differed on how to achieve their goals. Netanyahu argued that a reliable deal with Iran was impossible and that Tehran would likely violate any agreement. Trump, however, expressed belief in the possibility of a diplomatic solution, saying efforts should be made to test that path. U.S. officials added that Washington would keep military options open if diplomacy failed, maintaining both nuclear talks and a strong military presence in the Middle East.

Analysts noted that since over 80 percent of Iran’s oil exports go to China, reducing Chinese purchases could significantly increase economic pressure on Tehran. A recent executive order signed by Trump also allows the U.S. to recommend tariffs of up to 25 percent on countries maintaining trade with Iran, potentially deepening Iran’s international isolation.