Netanyahu Prepares for Washington Visit Amid Security Escalation and Vows Broader Action Against Terror Cells

During a government meeting held on Sunday in a secure underground facility amid rising security tensions, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced his planned trip to Washington the following day for a meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump, who invited him. Netanyahu is also expected to attend a memorial ceremony for Senator Lindsey Graham, whom he described as one of Israel's greatest friends since its founding.

Netanyahu stated he would discuss various pressing issues with Trump, including the situation in Iran. Addressing recent deadly attacks in the Samaria region, Netanyahu detailed operational measures authorized during the meeting: Israeli forces have been ordered to enter villages, conduct searches, seize weapons, and arrest suspects. Actions already taken include a raid on a hospital in Nablus where two accomplices were captured, sealing the home of a terrorist in preparation for demolition, and mapping other accomplices’ homes for future operations. Netanyahu emphasized that Israel is prepared to take broader action against terror hubs, with Defense Minister Yoav Gallant expected to expand these efforts.

The Prime Minister also commented on the recent dismissal of the International Criminal Court's chief prosecutor, highlighting that the decision was supported by a large majority of countries and revealed allegations of sexual harassment against the prosecutor. Netanyahu accused the prosecutor of acting out of personal interests to deflect attention and rally Israel's detractors, thereby exposing deep corruption within the prosecutor's office and the court. He mentioned a conversation with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who reaffirmed America’s intent to act decisively against the ICC, which Netanyahu described as threatening justice and the sovereignty of democratic states. Netanyahu called this a very positive development that should be widely publicized worldwide.