Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu arrived in Washington on Monday for a crucial meeting with President Trump. This marks their first face-to-face discussion since both leaders enacted substantial military actions against Iran. As the dust settles on the recently concluded fighting in Iran, President Trump is pushing for a new cease-fire in Gaza, aiming to mitigate ongoing conflicts in the region.
Trump had previously ordered American stealth bombers to assist in an Israeli operation targeting Iran’s nuclear ambitions, sparking retaliatory missile strikes from Tehran that struck Israeli cities. With direct hostilities in Iran now abated, Trump is contemplating the terms of a potential nuclear agreement with the Iranian government, while acknowledging the pressing urgency of a cease-fire to resolve the escalating violence in Gaza.
The stakes are high for this meeting, as many in both Israel and Gaza are hopeful that Netanyahu and Trump could facilitate a new truce to end the already lengthy conflict, which has lasted 21 months and taken a heavy toll on civilians. Recent history shows that Israel and Hamas agreed to two temporary cease-fires, the most notable ending in mid-March, which allowed for the exchange of over 1,500 Palestinian prisoners for 30 hostages and the remains of eight others.
The outcome of this meeting could potentially shape the future relations and security dynamics in the region, raising hopes for a resolution that addresses the humanitarian crisis and brings relief to those affected by the ongoing tension.
