Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu departed for Washington on Sunday for a meeting with US President Donald Trump, aiming to discuss regional security, the war in Gaza, and efforts to free hostages held by Hamas. Netanyahu, who is the first foreign leader to meet Trump since his return to the White House, emphasized the significance of US-Israel cooperation in reshaping the Middle East.
Before leaving Israel, Netanyahu outlined the key issues on the agenda, stating that discussions would focus on “victory over Hamas, achieving the release of all our hostages, and dealing with the Iranian terror axis in all its components.” He added that collaboration with Trump’s administration could further reshape the region.
His visit comes as Israel navigates the first stage of a three-phase ceasefire agreement with Hamas, mediated by the US, Egypt, and Qatar. The deal, which paused hostilities in the Gaza Strip, was intended to secure the release of hostages taken during Hamas’s October 7 attack on Israel. While 13 Israeli hostages have been freed under the agreement, negotiations for the next phase remain uncertain. Netanyahu is under pressure from right-wing members of his coalition, who are urging a resumption of military operations in Gaza rather than proceeding with the deal’s second stage.
Israel is also pushing for a diplomatic breakthrough with Saudi Arabia. The Trump administration is reportedly interested in expanding the Abraham Accords to include Riyadh, although the war in Gaza and Saudi demands for progress toward a Palestinian state have complicated negotiations. Trump has expressed hopes that the ceasefire deal could create momentum for further normalization between Israel and Arab states.
Netanyahu’s coalition faces internal tensions over the ceasefire. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, a leader in the far-right Religious Zionism party, called on Netanyahu to strengthen Israel’s hold on the West Bank, warning that failing to continue the war could threaten the government’s stability. The Otzma Yehudit party has already left the coalition in protest of the ceasefire, and Smotrich has threatened to do the same if the war does not resume.
Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer and government hostage coordinator Gal Hirsch accompanied Netanyahu to Washington. Also on the flight was Dr. Eyal Heller, a senior cardiologist, raising speculation about Netanyahu’s health, as he has a history of heart issues and underwent surgery in late 2023.
Netanyahu is set to meet US special envoy for the Middle East Steve Witkoff on Monday to initiate discussions on the next phase of the ceasefire. Reports suggest Netanyahu is considering appointing Dermer to lead Israel’s negotiations with Hamas, replacing Mossad Director David Barnea. Netanyahu’s office has denied these claims.
The October 7 attack by Hamas saw approximately 3,000 terrorists storm Israeli communities, killing 1,200 people and taking 251 hostages. As of now, 76 hostages remain in Gaza, including at least 34 confirmed dead. The ongoing negotiations aim to secure their release while determining the next steps in the conflict.