Netanyahu seeks renewed U.S. ties in Trump talks on Mideast
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu travelled to Washington to meet with Donald Trump to discuss "key issues concerning the Middle East."
Netanyahu set out for Washington on Sunday to meet with U.S. President Donald Trump. The visit aims to discuss important Middle Eastern issues, including the second phase of the ceasefire in the Gaza Strip.
Trump - Netanyahu talks
Before departing from Tel Aviv, Netanyahu highlighted the importance of cooperation with the U.S. Together with the U.S. President, we can permanently improve the Middle East. He added that decisions made with Trump have already transformed the region. "I believe that we can strengthen security, broaden the circle of peace, and achieve a remarkable era of peace through strength," he declared.
During his visit to the White House, Netanyahu will be the first foreign leader received by Trump since he resumed office on January 20. The visit aimed to renew relations with the U.S., strained during Biden's presidency.
What are Netanyahu's plans?
Netanyahu plans to discuss with Trump the expansion of the Abraham Accords, which normalize Israel's relations with Arab countries. Special attention will be given to possibly including Saudi Arabia in this agreement and addressing the threats posed by Iran.
Another topic for discussion is the six-week ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, which began on January 19. The ceasefire, negotiated with assistance from the U.S., Qatar, and Egypt, is set to last. Negotiations on the second phase of the truce should begin before Monday, the 16th day of the first phase.
Political pressure and Hamas's stance
According to Israeli media, Netanyahu faces significant pressure from far-right factions. These factions demand that fighting resume after the first phase of the agreement expires. They threaten to withdraw from the coalition or vote for a no-confidence motion, which could collapse the government.
It is unclear what stance Trump will now take, as he presents himself as a staunch ally of Israel while simultaneously promising a quick resolution to the conflict and taking credit for suspending the war, added the AP agency.
Qatar's Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani called for immediate negotiations between Israel and Hamas, stressing the urgency of reaching an agreement before the first phase concludes. Meanwhile, senior Hamas official Taher al-Nunu stated that while the group is open to discussions, it remains fully prepared to continue fighting if negotiations fail.
