Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met with U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House, the first foreign leader to visit since Trump’s re-election. Talks focused on a potential Israel-Saudi normalization deal, the Gaza war, and the ongoing hostage negotiations.
Trump, Netanyahu Discuss Middle East Issues
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu arrived at the White House for talks with U.S. President Donald Trump, marking the first official visit by a foreign leader since Trump returned to office.
The two leaders discussed a range of geopolitical issues, including a potential normalization deal between Israel and Saudi Arabia. Trump stated that Saudi Arabia had not made a Palestinian state a condition for normalization, emphasizing that all parties “want peace.”
Israel’s War Objectives in Gaza
Netanyahu outlined Israel’s three primary goals in the ongoing Gaza conflict: securing the release of all hostages, dismantling Hamas’ military and government infrastructure, and ensuring that Gaza no longer poses a security threat to Israel. He insisted that Israel would not agree to a ceasefire unless all three objectives were met.
Trump’s Global Security Outlook
Beyond the Middle East, Trump commented on the state of global conflicts, including the war in Ukraine, attributing instability to weak leadership. He reaffirmed his administration’s stance on securing U.S. interests while pursuing diplomatic solutions.
Further Meetings Expected
As negotiations over a potential Gaza ceasefire and a Saudi-Israel agreement continue, Netanyahu is expected to hold further discussions with U.S. officials during his visit.
Gaza Strip
Trump also announced that the U.S. would take control of Gaza, overseeing the removal of unexploded ordnance and weapons while leading reconstruction efforts and economic development in the area.
Hamas Open to Talks with Trump
In a separate development, Hamas signaled its readiness for dialogue with the Trump administration. Senior Hamas Politburo member Mousa Abu Marzouk told Russia’s RIA news agency that Hamas is open to negotiations, citing the U.S.’s dominant role in the Middle East. Marzouk stated that Hamas has “never objected” to contact with previous U.S. administrations and is prepared to engage in talks.
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