President Donald Trump is scheduled to meet Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, amid pressures for and against a temporary truce with Hamas, as public sentiment in Israel leans towards settling the ongoing conflict and bringing home remaining hostages. Trump acknowledged uncertainty surrounding the long-term success of the ceasefire, although he asserted credit for its establishment. The talks will focus on advancing a hostage deal, Israel-Saudi Arabia relations, and concerns over Iran’s nuclear ambitions.
Netanyahu’s visit to Washington follows a period of waning public support amid his ongoing corruption trial. Observers suggest that this meeting may serve to divert attention from his legal troubles, leveraging Trump’s popularity in Israel. Notably, Netanyahu’s government faces demands from right-wing factions to resume military operations against Hamas, highlighting internal political tensions.
As negotiations for the next phase of the ceasefire progress, key issues include the release of hostages and Israeli troop withdrawal from Gaza. Trump’s proposition to relocate Palestinians from Gaza to Egypt or Jordan has garnered rejection from regional leaders, complicating efforts for a Saudi normalization deal. Observers contend that this meeting could significantly impact both US-Israel relations and broader Middle Eastern dynamics, marking it as a critical juncture in regional politics.