Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and U.S. President Donald Trump were expected to celebrate their recent joint actions against Iran. Their meeting at the White House, however, was overshadowed by Israel's ongoing conflict with Hamas in Gaza and questions about Trump's efforts to end the war.
Trump has expressed a desire to see the Gaza conflict resolved soon. The meeting between the two leaders could potentially accelerate a U.S. ceasefire proposal currently under discussion. The outcome of these discussions remains uncertain.
White House officials are urging Israel and Hamas to quickly finalize a new ceasefire agreement. This agreement would include a 60-day pause in fighting, the delivery of aid to Gaza, and the release of hostages. A key point of contention is whether the ceasefire will lead to a complete end to the war. Hamas is willing to release all hostages in exchange for an end to the war and a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza. Netanyahu insists the war will end only when Hamas surrenders, disarms, and goes into exile.
Demonstrators, including family members of hostages, gathered outside the U.S. Capitol to advocate for the release of all remaining hostages. Trump has been pressuring Israel and Hamas to conclude the conflict, which has resulted in significant casualties, devastated Gaza, and deepened Israel's international isolation.
The specifics of a potential deal and its ability to end the war are still being negotiated. Trump's confidence in a breakthrough has fluctuated. He has also expressed a desire for an agreement regarding the remaining hostages.
The relationship between Trump and Netanyahu has evolved. After their recent joint actions against Iran, the two leaders are more aligned than ever. However, this has not always been the case. Trump has previously used meetings with Netanyahu to announce initiatives that caught the Israeli leader off guard. Trump has pledged to be "very firm" with Netanyahu on ending the war, without specifying the actions he would take.
Netanyahu must balance the demands of his American ally with the interests of the far-right parties in his governing coalition, who oppose ending the war. Given the strong U.S. support for Israel's actions against Iran, Netanyahu may find it difficult to resist Trump's pressure.
The leaders were also expected to discuss the ceasefire with Iran. Trump is seeking a "permanent deal" with Tehran to prevent the revival of its nuclear program. The Trump administration believes that the recent strikes have set back Iran's nuclear program.
5 Comments
Michelangelo
If ending the war is truly their goal, the U.S. needs to significantly change its stance and pressure Israel. This isn't happening.
Donatello
The focus should be on de-escalation and dialogue. Anything that helps achieve that, including U.S. involvement, is welcomed.
Leonardo
I am not fully sure on the different sides. It is good that people are making an effort for peace.
Donatello
The agreement being discussed with Hamas seems reasonable and will hopefully alleviate the current situation.”
Raphael
The far-right parties in Israel are the real hand brakes against peace. They're more concerned with expansion than human lives.