Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is claiming to be in talks with the United States on setting a “red line” for Iran’s nuclear program that would trigger a military attack if crossed. Netanyahu made the disclosure in an interview with Canada’s CBC News.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu: “We’re discussing this right now with the United States.”

Reporter: “So, what is it in terms of drawing that line, what are you hoping the U.S. will do?”

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu: “I think the issue is not merely the sanctions or the steps that are — that could be enhanced to put pressure on Iran. It’s also a clear delineation of a line which Iran cannot cross in its pursuit of the development of nuclear weapons capability. And I think if Iran saw that there is a chance — I won’t say it’s guaranteed, but there is a chance — they might pause and think before they cross that line.”

Asked about Netanyahu’s comments in Washington, State Department spokesperson Victoria Nuland refused to confirm that talks are being held on “red lines.”

Victoria Nuland: “You know, we are absolutely firm about the president’s commitment here, but it is not useful to be parsing it, to be setting deadlines one way or the other — red lines. It is most important that we stay intensely focused on the pressure on Iran, the opportunity for Iran to fix this situation through the diplomacy that we’ve offered, and intensive consultations with Israel and all the other regional states as we are doing.”