Netanyahu Arrives in Washington for Key Meeting with Trump Focused on Iran

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu arrived early Tuesday morning in Washington ahead of a scheduled meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump that evening. The central topic of their discussion is Iran. Trump acknowledged some differences with Netanyahu on policy but said their positions on Iran are "quite close." He noted that Iran initiated recent talks both directly and through intermediaries, describing the negotiations as "good." Trump warned that if no agreement is reached, the U.S. would resume military action against Iran.

Trump also commented on the F-35 deal with Turkey, affirming Turkey as a good ally and asserting his authority over arms sales. Prior to meeting Netanyahu, Trump was set to meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, and later both leaders planned to attend the funeral of Republican Senator Lindsey Graham, a longtime friend of Israel who passed away last week.

Before departing from Nevatim Airbase on the "Kanaf Zion" plane, Netanyahu emphasized the importance of the meeting, stating it was his eighth with Trump since the president's second term began, more than with any other international leader. He highlighted the dual goals of ensuring Israel's security and expanding peace in the region. Netanyahu also expressed his intent to firmly oppose U.S. demands for Israeli concessions on three fronts: Gaza, Syria, and Lebanon, as revealed in a recent cabinet briefing. He declared his determination to "stand firm and say no" during his visit.

This visit underscores the ongoing strategic coordination between Israel and the U.S. amid complex regional challenges, particularly concerning Iran's nuclear ambitions and regional influence.