Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is looking to arrange a meeting with President Donald Trump in Washington, potentially as early as next week, according to two U.S. officials who are involved in the early stages of planning for this visit.
If the schedule aligns, Netanyahu could become the first foreign leader to meet Trump at the White House since Trump took office a week ago. The officials, speaking on the condition of anonymity while the arrangements are still being finalized, mentioned that the specifics of the meeting could be discussed further when Trump’s special envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, visits Israel this week for conversations with Netanyahu and other Israeli representatives.
Trump hinted at the potential visit during a conversation with reporters aboard Air Force One, although he did not share any specific details about the timing. He stated, “I’m going to be speaking with Bibi Netanyahu in the not too distant future.”
The information about Netanyahu’s plans was initially disclosed by Axios. Additionally, Netanyahu’s spokesperson, Omer Dostri, mentioned on the social media platform X that the Israeli leader has yet to receive an official invitation to the White House.
Despite this, an Israeli official indicated that Netanyahu is anticipated to visit the White House in February, though the date remains unconfirmed. This official also requested anonymity until an official statement is made.
During an event marking the opening of a synagogue in New York City, Witkoff mentioned that he would be traveling to Israel on Wednesday to further discuss the ongoing ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas. He emphasized, “We have to implement the agreement in a correct way. The execution of the agreement was important. It was the first step, but without the correct implementation, we’re not going to get it right — we’re going to have a flare-up, and that’s not a good thing. So, we’re going to watch it.”
The U.S. officials highlighted that Witkoff aims to prioritize the advancement of the ceasefire implementation, the release of American citizens and others who are still held hostage by Hamas, and strengthening the delicate ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon.
