Asger Risom
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met with U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House amid mounting pressure to secure a Gaza ceasefire.
With regional diplomacy intensifying and negotiations underway in Qatar, the high-stakes visit comes at a pivotal moment in the 21-month conflict.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met with U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House amid mounting pressure to secure a Gaza ceasefire.
With regional diplomacy intensifying and negotiations underway in Qatar, the high-stakes visit comes at a pivotal moment in the 21-month conflict.
A High-Stakes Washington Visit
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s visit to the White House marked his third during Donald Trump’s second term. The meeting comes amid heightened diplomatic pressure to reach a ceasefire with Hamas in Gaza.
Trump Signals Upcoming Iran Talks
President Trump announced that the U.S. had scheduled talks with Iran, suggesting a shift in regional diplomacy. Trump noted that Iran was now willing to engage, following significant military setbacks.
Relocation Proposal for Gaza Residents
Netanyahu floated the idea of relocating Palestinians from Gaza to neighboring countries, claiming it could offer them “a better future.” Trump voiced support, referencing regional cooperation without elaborating on specific plans.
Ceasefire Deal Under Negotiation
While Netanyahu met with Trump, Israeli officials continued indirect talks with Hamas in Doha. The proposed U.S.-backed ceasefire includes phased hostage releases, Israeli troop withdrawals, and steps toward ending the war.
Contentious Humanitarian Conditions
Palestinian sources cited Israel’s restrictions on humanitarian aid as a key obstacle in the negotiations. Israel insists it’s delivering aid while preventing militant diversion of supplies.
Netanyahu Nominates Trump for Nobel
During their meeting, Netanyahu presented Trump with a letter nominating him for the Nobel Peace Prize. Trump appeared pleased by the gesture, signaling the strength of their political alliance.
Domestic and Regional Fallout
Trump’s strong support for Netanyahu included recent criticism of Israeli prosecutors handling corruption charges against the prime minister. Meanwhile, Israeli leaders hope for improved ties with neighbors like Lebanon and Saudi Arabia.
Protesters Rally Outside the White House
Hundreds of demonstrators gathered near the White House during the meeting, waving Palestinian flags and demanding an end to U.S. support for Israel. Banners called for Netanyahu’s arrest and a halt to weapons transfers.
Gaza’s Mounting Toll Amid Israeli Offensive
While around 1,200 Israelis has been killed since October 2023, Israel’s sustained bombardment has since killed over 57,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza’s health ministry. Nearly half a million Gazans are now facing famine conditions, a humanitarian crisis decades in the making.
Prospects for a Lasting Ceasefire
Despite diplomatic momentum, a final ceasefire remains elusive. Hamas demands a complete end to hostilities before releasing remaining hostages, while Israel insists on dismantling Hamas first, leaving the region in limbo.
