Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is set to meet with President Donald Trump to discuss critical matters such as defeating Hamas, addressing Iran’s influence, and fostering stronger ties with Arab nations. This significant meeting, scheduled at the White House for Tuesday, will mark Trump’s first engagement with a foreign leader since his return to office.
The discussions come at a pivotal moment as the US and Arab nations collaborate to find a way forward in efforts to de-escalate the war in Gaza and secure the release of numerous hostages held by militants.
Ahead of his trip to Washington, Netanyahu emphasized the key topics of the meeting, including securing a victory over Hamas, ensuring the safe return of all hostages, and tackling Iran’s role in the ongoing conflict. He expressed confidence that through mutual efforts, they could “strengthen security, expand the peace circle, and usher in a new era of peace through strength.”
Meanwhile, tensions continue to rise. Following the ceasefire agreement last month, Hamas quickly regained control over Gaza, and the militant group has made it clear that they will not release hostages in the second phase of the deal unless Israel agrees to end the conflict and withdraw all its troops.
Pressure is mounting on Netanyahu from some of his political allies to resume military action after the ceasefire period expires in early March. He remains committed to the goal of defeating Hamas and bringing back all hostages taken during the October 7, 2023 attack, which ignited the conflict.
Though a ceasefire is in place, violence has not fully subsided. Over the weekend, an Israeli airstrike targeted a vehicle in Gaza, injuring five people, including a child. The Israeli military stated that the vehicle was breaking the ceasefire terms by failing to stop at a checkpoint, which led to the strike.
