WASHINGTON — President Trump is scheduled to meet with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday amid mounting pressures on the Israeli leader from his right-wing coalition to end the current truce with Hamas in Gaza, while a significant portion of the Israeli public demands the return of hostages and an end to the ongoing conflict, which has lasted 15 months.
Trump expressed skepticism regarding the longevity of the truce, even as he noted his role in facilitating the recent hostage and ceasefire agreement that started just before he resumed office last month.
“I have no guarantees that the peace is going to hold,” Trump remarked to reporters on Monday.
The discussions between the two leaders are anticipated to address the long-desired normalization deal between Israel and Saudi Arabia as well as escalating concerns regarding Iran’s nuclear ambitions, though the primary focus will likely be the next phase of the hostage deal.
Netanyahu’s visit marks his first international trip since the International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants in November against him, his former defense minister, and Hamas’ deceased military chief, alleging crimes against humanity related to the Gaza conflict. The U.S. does not recognize the ICC’s jurisdiction over its citizens or territories.
Netanyahu’s discussions with Trump’s Mideast envoy and U.S. National Security Adviser on Monday initiated crucial negotiations for the next phase of the ceasefire agreement.
In a statement, Netanyahu described his meeting as “positive and friendly,” revealing plans to send a delegation to Qatar for continued indirect negotiations with Hamas facilitated by the Gulf nation. He will also convene his security Cabinet after returning to Israel to discuss demands for the next phase of the ceasefire.
Under mounting pressure from extremist members of his government, Netanyahu faces calls to abandon the ceasefire and recommence military operations in Gaza to eliminate Hamas. A key figure in his coalition has threatened to cause government collapse if the hostilities do not resume, potentially leading to early elections.
Hamas, having regained authority in Gaza during the truce, insists that hostages will not be released without a full cessation of the conflict and complete withdrawal of Israeli forces. Netanyahu remains adamant that Israel will achieve victory over Hamas while ensuring the return of all hostages captured in the initial attack that sparked the war.
Observers have noted that Trump’s focus on the situation may diminish his patience for Netanyahu’s political challenges if they interfere with broader objectives. Some advocates for hostages are urging Trump to leverage American influence to ensure Netanyahu adheres to the truce.
Plans for exchanging remaining hostages—including young men and soldiers—are underway, with expectations for these negotiations to lead to a complete Israeli military withdrawal from Gaza.
In recent statements, Netanyahu has faced criticism for his handling of the situation, with some constituents arguing that extremist elements are attempting to manipulate his decisions.
The Trump administration’s proposal to relocate Palestinian populations from Gaza to neighboring countries like Egypt and Jordan has met with resistance, highlighting the complexities of the regional landscape and contradicting efforts for a Palestinian state.
As these discussions unfold, the focus remains on the potential implications for both U.S.-Israel relations and the broader geopolitical dynamics in the Middle East.
Experts emphasize that the upcoming meeting represents a pivotal moment, as decisions made could shape the future of the region.
Stay tuned for more updates on this critical event as it develops.
