Netanyahu Meets Trump in Washington: Talks Focus on Gaza, Hostages, Iran, and Trade
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met with U.S. President Donald Trump on Monday at the White House for a high-profile discussion covering Gaza, the Israeli hostages, U.S.-Israel trade relations, and regional threats including Iran • Read More
Trump welcomed Netanyahu with warm remarks, calling him a “great leader” and reaffirming his strong support for Israel. The meeting comes amid heightened tensions in the region and follows newly imposed U.S. tariffs on Israeli goods — a key topic on the agenda.
Netanyahu emphasized that Israel plans to eliminate its trade deficit with the United States and reduce trade barriers, saying, “We think it’s the right thing to do.” He became the first world leader to meet with Trump on the issue of tariffs, calling it a reflection of the close ties between the two countries.
The two also addressed the ongoing war in Gaza and the efforts to secure the release of Israeli hostages. Trump acknowledged the challenges involved, saying, “We want the war to end, but we also want the hostages out. It’s a long process, and it’s a big problem.”
Regarding Iran, Trump confirmed that direct negotiations are taking place, warning that the situation is becoming increasingly dangerous. He stressed that diplomacy is preferred, but left open the possibility of other options.
On Gaza, Trump questioned Israel’s 2005 withdrawal, calling it “a mistake” and suggesting a plan to offer Gazans relocation options to other countries. Netanyahu echoed the idea as a humanitarian option, stating, “What is wrong with giving people a choice?”
The meeting was described as warm and productive by the Prime Minister’s Office.
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