In a significant diplomatic move, U.S. President Donald Trump is set to welcome Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for discussions at the White House next Monday. This visit forms part of Trump’s efforts to mediate between the Israeli government and Hamas, aiming to negotiate a ceasefire and agree on a hostage release to end the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
The confirmation of this meeting was provided by two U.S. administration officials, who requested anonymity due to the sensitive nature of the information. This visit marks Netanyahu’s third arrival at the White House since Trump’s reinstatement as President. The timing is particularly notable as it follows U.S. military actions against Iranian nuclear facilities, initiating a temporary ceasefire between Israel and Iran. Trump is now attempting to similarly resolve the hostilities between Israel and Hamas.
Trump expressed hope, telling reporters that a ceasefire in Gaza could be achieved as early as next week, though he did not elaborate on what fuels his optimism.
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt emphasized the administration’s commitment to resolving the conflict, highlighting the continuous communication with Israeli officials. “It’s heartbreaking to see the images that have come out from both Israel and Gaza throughout this war, and the president wants to see it end,” Leavitt stated. “He wants to save lives.”
Israeli Minister for Strategic Affairs Ron Dermer is currently in Washington for discussions on various issues, including a potential Gaza ceasefire and Iran. These negotiations have frequently stalled due to disagreements regarding the terms of ending the conflict. Approximately 50 hostages remain in captivity in Gaza, and fewer than half are believed to be alive.
Netanyahu’s Washington visit is expected to underscore Trump’s alliance with the Israeli leader, even as Trump’s approach faces scrutiny from Democratic lawmakers, who question the effectiveness of U.S. and Israeli military actions on Iran’s nuclear capabilities.
A preliminary report from the U.S. Defense Intelligence Agency suggested that the strikes inflicted significant damage on Iranian nuclear sites at Fordo, Natanz, and Isfahan, though the facilities were not completely destroyed. Rafael Grossi of the International Atomic Energy Agency remarked that while these sites sustained serious damage, some capabilities remain intact, potentially allowing Iran to resume its nuclear activities should it choose to do so. A complete assessment depends on Iran permitting inspector access.
On the domestic front, Trump has ventured into Israeli politics by condemning the corruption trial against Netanyahu, calling for charges to be dismissed, describing it as a “WITCH HUNT,” and asserting that the U.S. would ultimately safeguard Netanyahu against these allegations. This involvement in internal Israeli affairs has caused some concern among Israel’s political figures.
Simultaneously, the Trump administration authorized a substantial arms sale to Israel, valued at $510 million. This deal includes the provision of over 7,000 guidance kits for Joint Direct Attack Munitions, designed for precision bombing. Although this sale is relatively small compared to the over $3 billion in military aid provided to Israel annually, it underscores the ongoing U.S. commitment to Israel’s security amidst its conflicts with Hamas and its recent military actions targeting Iran.
The State Department stated, “The United States is committed to the security of Israel, and it is vital to U.S. national interests to assist Israel to develop and maintain a strong and ready self-defense capability. This proposed sale is consistent with those objectives.”