President Barack Obama is warning Iran that the U.S. will "do what is necessary" to prevent the Tehran from acquiring nuclear weapons.

Obama spoke after meeting Wednesday in Jerusalem with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu (neh-ten-YAH'-hoo).

The West says Iran's program is aimed at developing nuclear weapons technology. Iran says its program is for peaceful purposes.

Iran has defied the international community's urging that it consent to nuclear inspections.

Obama arrived in Israel on Wednesday for his first visit as president to the Mideast ally.