Benjamin Netanyahu Visits the U.S. for Discussions with Donald Trump | Global News
Benjamin Netanyahu stated that he will address “victory over Hamas”, Iran, and the enhancement of diplomatic relations with Arab nations during his upcoming meeting with Donald Trump.
This meeting at the White House on Tuesday marks Mr. Trump‘s first engagement with a foreign leader since returning to the presidency.
The meeting occurs as US and Arab intermediaries begin facilitating the next phase of negotiations aimed at concluding the conflict in the Gaza Strip and securing the release of numerous hostages held by militants.
Before his departure for Washington, the Israeli prime minister released a statement indicating that he and Mr. Trump would discuss “victory over Hamas, securing the release of all hostages, and addressing the Iranian terror network in all its facets”.
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He expressed confidence that through collaboration, they could “enhance security, expand the circle of peace, and foster a remarkable era of peace through strength”.
Meanwhile, Hamas, which has swiftly regained dominance in Gaza following last month’s ceasefire, has declared that it will not release the hostages scheduled for the next phase unless the conflict ends and Israeli forces complete their withdrawal.
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Mr. Netanyahu faces growing pressure from some coalition partners to resume hostilities once the first phase concludes in early March.
He maintains that Israel remains committed to defeating Hamas and ensuring the return of all hostages captured during the militants’ attack on October 7, 2023, which initiated the war.
On Sunday morning, an Israeli airstrike targeted a vehicle in central Gaza, injuring five people, including a child.
The Israeli military stated that the strike was executed because the vehicle was evading a checkpoint while heading north, contravening the ceasefire agreement.
