Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel and President Trump are scheduled to meet next week in the United States, marking Netanyahu’s third visit to the country in less than six months.
This visit follows the recent U.S. intervention in the escalating Israel-Iran conflict, during which the United States struck three Iranian nuclear facilities and helped secure a cease-fire. Netanyahu's arrival coincides with renewed international focus on achieving a truce in the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas in Gaza.
Efforts at indirect negotiations between Israel and Hamas have repeatedly failed to yield a cease-fire, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis for over two million Palestinian civilians in Gaza and prolonging the captivity of Israeli hostages. Disagreements persist regarding the duration of a potential cease-fire, with Hamas calling for an end to the war and Netanyahu favoring a temporary truce until Hamas’s military capacity is dismantled.
During a government ministers' meeting, Netanyahu announced plans to meet with other senior officials from the Trump administration, including Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, among others.
Trump indicated that Gaza and Iran would be key topics of discussion, expressing hope for a potential cease-fire next week but did not provide details on why he believed a breakthrough was imminent.
An Israeli official disclosed that Netanyahu intends to fly to Washington on Sunday, with a meeting with Trump planned for Monday. Trump has urged for progress in Gaza, stating on social media, “MAKE THE DEAL IN GAZA. GET THE HOSTAGES BACK!!!”
Some analysts suggest that Netanyahu may be prepared to consider ending the conflict in Gaza, despite the risk of losing support from far-right political allies. They argue that he may feel confident in his re-election campaign due to the recent Israeli and American strikes on Iran's nuclear program.
Although the extent of damage to Iranian facilities remains uncertain, Netanyahu has claimed success in the campaign, which has seemingly boosted his domestic popularity.
In light of increasing calls for a resolution to secure the release of hostages from Gaza, Israeli authorities believe that up to 20 hostages, abducted during the Hamas-led attack on October 7, 2023, are still alive, along with the remains of 30 others.
Humanitarian officials have raised alarms about the dire conditions facing Palestinians in Gaza, who are struggling to access food aid amidst ongoing violence and harsh living conditions in makeshift shelters.
Netanyahu remarked to Shin Bet workers that Israel's actions in Iran have created new opportunities, emphasizing the need to resolve the Gaza situation and overcome Hamas.
Recently, Hamas officials have indicated through Arabic media that they remain firm on their demand for an end to the war.