Trump and Netanyahu to Hold Key Talks as Gaza Conflict Intensifies
U.S. President Donald Trump is scheduled to meet Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday at the White House, marking their second official meeting since Trump resumed office. The high-stakes dialogue comes amid escalating violence in Gaza due to intensified Israeli military operations.
The leaders are expected to address several pressing matters, including the ongoing conflict in Gaza, trade tariffs, and broader geopolitical concerns.
Israel has recently expanded its military operations in Gaza, establishing a security buffer zone to exert pressure on Hamas. Netanyahu’s office confirmed that the agenda will also include strategies for securing the release of hostages captured during the October 7, 2023, attacks and dealing with tensions between Israel and the International Criminal Court (ICC).
Netanyahu was notably the first foreign dignitary received at the White House during Trump’s second term. During that earlier visit, Trump sparked controversy by suggesting a plan to permanently relocate displaced Palestinians outside Gaza—a proposal that was met with strong opposition from Palestinian leaders and several Arab states.
The humanitarian crisis in Gaza continues to worsen, with the health ministry in the region reporting over 50,000 fatalities due to ongoing Israeli airstrikes and ground operations.
Tariff disputes will also be on the table, as Israel currently faces a 17% trade duty—an issue that has raised concerns within Netanyahu’s administration. Trump is expected to raise matters involving Israel’s diplomatic relations with Turkey and the broader threat posed by Iran.
International protests have intensified in recent weeks, with demonstrators in cities like London, Paris, and Berlin criticizing both leaders for their handling of the Gaza conflict. Families of those held hostage in Gaza have also called on Trump to push Netanyahu to end hostilities and secure their loved ones’ release.
The White House has confirmed that broader regional dynamics, including future U.S. support for Israeli defense operations and relations with key Middle Eastern players, will be part of the discussions.
