The top U.S. military commander is scheduled for talks in Israel this week, Israel said Sunday, January 15, at a time when the United States is concerned that Israel might be preparing to attack Iran over its nuclear program.

According to AP, confirming the visit by Army Gen. Martin Dempsey, the chairman of the U.S. Joint Chiefs of Staff, the Israeli Defense Ministry did not give his agenda for talks with Israelis - but Iran is expected to be at the top.

Israel considers a nuclear-armed Iran to be an existential threat because of its nuclear program, missile capabilities, support for anti-Israel militants in Lebanon and Gaza, and frequent references by its president to the destruction of Israel.

Israel has repeatedly hinted it might take military action if international sanctions fail to stop Iran’s nuclear development.

The U.S., Israel and other Western nations believe Iran is developing atomic weapons. Tehran insists its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes.

Dempsey’s visit will be his first official trip to Israel since he assumed command of the joint chiefs on Sept. 30