by Our Correspondents in Washington DC and in Doha
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is reportedly seeking U.S. approval for an Israeli strike on Iran’s nuclear facilities, possibly after the conclusion of the first stage of the Gaza ceasefire, sources say.
Netanyahu is set to meet U.S. President Donald Trump on Tuesday, marking his first visit since Trump’s return to office. The two leaders are expected to discuss the Gaza ceasefire and strategies to counter Iran’s nuclear ambitions. Netanyahu, who had a strained relationship with the Biden administration, is likely to receive a warmer welcome this time, given Trump’s strong pro-Israel stance.
The meeting comes at a pivotal moment for the region, with the Gaza truce remaining fragile, tensions between Israel and Hezbollah simmering in Lebanon, and growing concerns over Iran’s nuclear program. Netanyahu is expected to push Trump for a more aggressive stance against Tehran, potentially securing American backing for a preemptive strike.
Geopolitical Tensions and Strategic Considerations
The meeting also coincides with the resumption of indirect negotiations between Israel and Hamas regarding the second phase of the ceasefire and hostage exchanges. While Trump has expressed a commitment to maintaining peace in the Middle East, his broader ambitions, including a renewed push for Saudi-Israeli normalization, could complicate Netanyahu’s push for military action against Iran.
Trump’s administration previously played a key role in brokering the Gaza ceasefire deal even before his return to office. However, his proposal to relocate Gazans to neighboring countries such as Egypt and Jordan—aligning with Israeli far-right views—has been met with strong resistance from Arab states. A senior U.S. official defended Trump’s position, citing the extensive destruction in Gaza and arguing that it would be inhumane to force Palestinians to remain in uninhabitable conditions.
U.S.-Israel Relations and Netanyahu’s Diplomatic Agenda
Netanyahu’s visit comes amid significant diplomatic challenges. Facing domestic pressure from far-right coalition members demanding a renewed offensive in Gaza, he must also navigate Trump’s shifting regional strategy. The prime minister’s firm opposition to a Palestinian state remains a major sticking point, potentially hindering Trump’s hopes for Saudi-Israeli normalization.
Protests are expected in Washington during Netanyahu’s visit, with pro-Palestinian activists and hostage-release advocates demonstrating against his policies. Meanwhile, Netanyahu is also expected to meet with senior Trump aides and congressional leaders to ensure continued U.S. military support. Shortly after taking office, Trump approved a shipment of 2,000-pound bombs to Israel, reversing Biden-era restrictions.
The Iran Factor
Iran remains a critical topic in the talks. Following Tehran’s missile and drone attack on Israel last year, both Trump and Netanyahu have vowed to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. Trump’s 2018 withdrawal from the Iran nuclear deal signaled a hardline approach, and Netanyahu is expected to push for further U.S. support in countering Iran’s nuclear program.
