Donald Trump welcomes Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to the White House today, shortly after promising a “deal” for Gaza and ruling out any annexation of the occupied West Bank.
“We have a real opportunity to achieve something big in the Middle East. Everyone is ready for something special, something happening for the first time. We will succeed,” the US president wrote Sunday on his platform, Truth Social.
This is the fourth meeting between the two leaders since the Republican was sworn in on January 20. A joint press conference is scheduled for 20:15 Greek time.
In nine months, Donald Trump has never questioned his support for Israel. But his ideas on how to end the conflict — which erupted on October 7 with Hamas’ unprecedented attack — have shifted and not always aligned with those of his guest.
As for the Israeli prime minister, he continues to adopt a belligerent tone, but finds himself internationally isolated and facing protests at home calling for a ceasefire that would allow the return of hostages.
Experts underline that he does not have the luxury of clashing with his only major ally.
The latest US proposal, which Trump has already outlined by phone to Netanyahu and in person to Muslim leaders, promises peace for the Palestinian territory, which has been devastated after two years of deadly Israeli attacks.
“I believe we have a deal,” Trump said on Friday. “It will be a deal that brings the hostages back. It will be a deal that ends the war,” he promised from the White House.
At almost the same time, Netanyahu delivered a combative speech at the UN, vowing to “finish the job” against Hamas.
According to a diplomatic source, the US plan foresees a lasting ceasefire in Gaza, the release of Israeli hostages held in Palestinian territory, an Israeli withdrawal, and future governance of Gaza without Hamas.
According to British media, former prime minister Tony Blair could play a major role within a future transitional authority in Gaza.
“Netanyahu clearly prefers to continue the war, but it is not impossible for Trump to persuade him otherwise,” said Natan Sachs, a Middle East expert at the Washington-based Middle East Institute.
Also read: Trump says he will block Netanyahu from West Bank annexation
For more videos and updates, check out our YouTube channel
