Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he will address the March 4 to 6 AIPAC policy conference in Washington, as speculation grows about how the United States and Israel will tackle Iran’s suspected nuclear weapons program.

Such visits usually include meetings with the president, but there was no notice from either Netanyahu’s office or the White House that a meeting with President Barack Obama would be scheduled.

The announcement comes against the backdrop of increased U.S.-led pressure on Iran to make transparent its nuclear program and speculation that Israel may strike Iran this year. — jta