Netanyahu meets with Trump: Strengthening ties amid regional tensions

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu set out for Washington on Sunday to meet with U.S. President Donald Trump. The purpose of the visit is to discuss key issues concerning the Middle East, including the second phase of the ceasefire in the Gaza Strip.

Before leaving Tel Aviv, Netanyahu highlighted the significance of collaboration with the United States, expressing confidence that, alongside the U.S. president, they could bring lasting positive change to the Middle East. He added that decisions made jointly with Trump have already changed the face of the region. "I believe that we can strengthen security, broaden the circle of peace and achieve a remarkable era of peace through strength," he declared.

During his visit to the White House, Netanyahu will be the first foreign leader to be received by Trump after he resumes office on January 20. The visit aimed to renew relations with the U.S., which had been tense during Biden's presidency.

Netanyahu plans to discuss with Trump the expansion of the Abraham Accords, which normalize Israel's relations with Arab countries. Special attention will be given to the possibility of including Saudi Arabia in this agreement and the threats posed by Iran.

The ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, which began on January 19, is another topic of discussion. The ceasefire, negotiated with the involvement of the U.S., Qatar, and Egypt, is set to last 42 days. Negotiations on the second phase of the truce should begin before the 16th day of the first phase, which falls on Monday.

According to Israeli media, Netanyahu is under intense pressure from far-right factions. These factions demand that fighting resume after the first phase of the agreement expires. They threaten to withdraw from the coalition or vote for a no-confidence motion, which could collapse the government.

It is unclear what stance Trump will now take, as he presents himself as a staunch ally of Israel while simultaneously promising a swift end to the war and already taking credit for suspending the conflict, added the AP agency.

Qatar's Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani urged Israel and Hamas to initiate negotiations without delay, stressing the need to reach an agreement before the first phase concludes. Meanwhile, senior Hamas official Taher al-Nunu stated that while the organization is open to talks, it remains fully prepared to continue fighting if negotiations do not succeed.