President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu are meeting this Tuesday as the Israeli leader faces mounting pressure to end a temporary ceasefire against Hamas militants in Gaza. Netanyahu is under pressure from his right-wing coalition to resume military actions, while Israelis exhausted by the 15-month-long war are calling for the release of hostages and an end to the conflict.
Trump has expressed caution regarding the longevity of the ceasefire agreement, despite taking credit for brokering the temporary deal that took effect just before he returned to office last month. “I have no guarantees that the peace is going to hold,” Trump told reporters on Monday.
The leaders are also expected to discuss key regional issues, including a potential normalization deal between Israel and Saudi Arabia, and concerns about Iran’s nuclear ambitions. However, securing the next phase of the hostage deal will be the main focus of their talks.
Netanyahu's visit to Washington marks his first foreign trip since the International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants in November over allegations of crimes committed during the Gaza war. Despite these legal issues, Netanyahu's popularity has waned, and his meeting with Trump could help shift public attention away from the ongoing corruption trial he is facing back in Israel.
During discussions with Trump’s Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, and U.S. National Security Advisor Michael Waltz on Monday, Netanyahu confirmed that Israel would continue indirect talks with Hamas, mediated by Qatar. Netanyahu’s security cabinet is also expected to discuss Israel’s demands for the next phase of the ceasefire upon his return.
Pressure from far-right factions in Netanyahu’s coalition remains a significant challenge, with some demanding the war resume in order to eliminate Hamas. Meanwhile, Hamas has indicated that it will not release any more hostages unless the war is officially ended and Israeli forces withdraw fully from Gaza.
Former U.S. diplomat Mira Resnick commented that Trump may not have much patience for Netanyahu’s domestic political struggles if they interfere with broader administration goals. “The president started his term by saying that he wanted the ceasefire in place by January 20,” Resnick said. “That’s what he got.”
As the talks continue, hostages like Matan Zangauker, whose son is among those held by Hamas, are urging Trump to use U.S. influence to ensure Netanyahu remains committed to the ceasefire. “The ultra-extremists in Israel are trying to undermine this deal,” Zangauker said, speaking at a rally outside the White House.
Trump has also raised the controversial suggestion of relocating Palestinians from Gaza to Egypt or Jordan. However, leaders from both countries, along with other regional powers, have rejected the idea, further complicating the peace process.
In addition to discussions about Gaza, Netanyahu is expected to press Trump for more decisive action against Iran, particularly as Israeli forces have made significant progress in degrading Hamas and Hezbollah in the region.
Political expert Eytan Gilboa believes this meeting is pivotal not only for U.S.-Israel relations but also for reshaping the Middle East’s future. “This is one of the most critical meetings between an American president and an Israeli prime minister,” he said.
