Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu arrived in Washington, D.C., where he is set to meet U.S. President Donald Trump for their first direct talks since the recent military confrontation with Iran, Israeli media reported.
This marks the eighth meeting between Netanyahu and Trump since the latter's return to the White House and their first direct meeting since last February, before the military strikes targeted Iran.
Before departing Israel, Netanyahu stated that the Iranian issue would be at the forefront of his discussions with the U.S. president, mentioning that the two sides would also talk about ways to "protect Israel's security and expand the circle of peace" in the region.
Regional Issues
According to Israeli reports, Netanyahu brings to Washington updated intelligence on Iran's nuclear program and plans to discuss several regional issues. These include the future of the war in Gaza, Israel's presence in Lebanon and Syria, and opposition to any potential sale of "F-35" fighter jets to Turkey.
The visit follows Israel's announcement of its agreement to allow an international security force into the Gaza Strip as part of Trump's proposed peace plan, a move observers see as a sign of renewed coordination between the two sides despite recent disagreements.
Media reports have hinted at tension between Trump and Netanyahu in recent months, due to differing positions on managing escalation with Iran and some regional issues. However, the two leaders aim to coordinate their stances amidst rapidly changing dynamics in the Middle East.
The visit also comes as Netanyahu faces domestic political pressures ahead of the Israeli elections scheduled for October, while Trump continues to push initiatives to reduce regional tensions alongside efforts to revive diplomatic relations with Iran and end the war in Gaza.