 "US President Donald Trump and Benjamin Netanyahu. Reuters File")
US President Donald Trump will host Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House next Monday, news agency AP reported citing US officials. The visit hasn’t been officially announced yet, and the officials briefed about the visit on condition of anonymity.
The meeting comes as Trump steps up efforts to push Israel toward a ceasefire deal in Gaza and a possible hostage release.
Earlier this week, Israeli Minister for Strategic Affairs Ron Dermer was in Washington to hold talks with senior US officials on Gaza, Iran, and related issues.
Trump has recently said he is focusing on ending the conflict between Israel and Hamas, especially after a ceasefire between Israel and Iran took effect last week. On Friday, he told reporters, “We think within the next week we’re going to get a ceasefire” in Gaza, but gave no further details.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said on Monday that the Trump administration is in constant contact with Israeli leaders and ending the war in Gaza is a top priority.
“It’s heartbreaking to see the images coming out of both Israel and Gaza. The president wants to end the war and save lives,” she said.
Trump is also expected to show strong support for Netanyahu amid criticism from Democratic lawmakers and others questioning the impact of Israeli and US strikes on Iran’s nuclear program.
Impact Shorts
More ShortsA US Defense Intelligence Agency report said the strikes caused serious damage to key Iranian nuclear sites—Fordo, Natanz, and Isfahan—but did not completely destroy them.
Rafael Grossi, head of the International Atomic Energy Agency, said on CBS’ Face the Nation that the sites were significantly damaged, though some capabilities remain. He added that Iran could restart its nuclear work if it chooses, depending on whether it allows inspectors full access.
Trump has also stirred controversy by commenting on Netanyahu’s ongoing corruption trial. Last week, he called the charges a “WITCH HUNT” on social media and claimed the US would “save” Netanyahu.
His comments have sparked concern within Israel’s political circles, as the case remains a deeply divisive issue.
Meanwhile, the Trump administration on Monday approved a $510 million arms sale to Israel. The package includes over 7,000 bomb guidance kits known as JDAMs, used for precision airstrikes.
While relatively small compared to the over $3 billion in annual US military aid to Israel, the deal helps replenish key supplies used in the war with Hamas and recent attacks on Iran.
The State Department said, “The United States is committed to Israel’s security, and this sale supports that goal by helping Israel maintain a strong defense capability.”