Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has left for Washington to discuss critical regional issues with U.S. President Donald Trump, focusing on the recent Gaza ceasefire, hostage negotiations, and countering Iran’s influence.
On Sunday, February 2, 2025, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu departed for Washington, D.C., to engage in high-level discussions with U.S. President Donald Trump. This visit marks Netanyahu’s first trip to the U.S. since his re-election in 2022 and the first meeting with President Trump since his inauguration last month.
Before boarding his flight at Ben Gurion Airport, Netanyahu emphasized the significance of the U.S.-Israel alliance, stating that his talks with President Trump will address “critical issues facing Israel and our region: victory over Hamas, achieving the release of all our hostages, and dealing with the Iranian terror axis in all its components.”
The meeting comes in the wake of a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas, which took effect on January 19, 2025. The initial phase of the ceasefire has seen the release of several hostages and Palestinian prisoners. Discussions are expected to focus on the next phases of the ceasefire, aiming for a permanent truce and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza.
Netanyahu’s visit also coincides with heightened tensions regarding Iran’s activities in the region. Both leaders are anticipated to discuss strategies to counter Iran’s influence and address concerns over its nuclear program.
This trip underscores the renewed collaboration between the U.S. and Israel, following a period of strained relations under the previous U.S. administration. Netanyahu is scheduled to return to Israel on Thursday, February 6, after concluding his discussions in Washington.
