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Ahead of a Crucial Meeting at the White House

Prime Minister Netanyahu Arrives in Washington Ahead of Crucial Meeting with President Trump

The Israeli leader is set to discuss key diplomatic and security issues, including the ceasefire agreement in Gaza and the return of hostages.

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Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his delegation landed Sunday evening at Andrews Air Force Base in Washington, ahead of his scheduled meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House on Tuesday afternoon. On Monday, Netanyahu is expected to meet with Trump’s special envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, to discuss the ongoing negotiations for the release of hostages and other key regional issues.

Following the high-stakes meeting between Netanyahu and Trump on Tuesday, the two leaders are set to have a joint dinner. On Wednesday, Netanyahu plans to visit the Pentagon for a meeting with newly appointed Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, and on Thursday, he will hold meetings in Congress. The Prime Minister’s Office has yet to confirm Netanyahu’s return date to Israel or whether he intends to remain in the U.S. through the weekend.

A Critical Meeting with Far-Reaching Implications

Netanyahu departed for Washington on Sunday morning, emphasizing the significance of the upcoming discussions. The meeting is seen as pivotal for the ceasefire agreement in Gaza and, most critically, for the fate of dozens of hostages—both alive and deceased—who are expected to be released in the second and third phases of the deal. It is also a crucial moment for Netanyahu and his coalition, which faces potential dissolution if Israel does not resume military operations at the end of the first phase.

Before boarding his flight, Netanyahu addressed reporters, stating: “I am heading to Washington for a very important meeting with President Trump. The fact that this is my first meeting with a foreign leader carries great significance and underscores the strength of our alliance and relationship—one that led to the historic Abraham Accords, championed by President Trump.”

Key Issues on the Agenda

Netanyahu outlined the central topics for discussion, stating: “We will address the critical issues ahead of us—the defeat of Hamas, the return of all our hostages, and the challenge posed by the Iranian axis in all its dimensions. This axis threatens not only Israel’s security but also the Middle East and the entire world.”

He added, “The decisions we made during the war, combined with the bravery of our IDF soldiers, have already transformed the Middle East. They have changed it beyond recognition. I believe that through dedicated work with President Trump, we can reshape it even further for the better.”

Netanyahu expressed optimism about the future, stating, “We have the opportunity to strengthen Israel’s security, expand the circle of peace even further, and usher in an era of prosperity, security, and peace through strength—the strength of our soldiers, our citizens, Israel itself, and the unwavering alliance between Israel and the United States.”


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