Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is seeking a direct discussion with ex-President Donald Trump during his time in the United States this week, as revealed by two informed sources.
Netanyahu is scheduled to visit Washington to hold talks with President Joe Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris, and members of Congress. A highlight of his visit includes a Congressional address set for Wednesday.
Recently, there have been talks between staff of Netanyahu and Trump regarding arranging a personal meeting, possibly in Florida. While Trump has not confirmed his attendance, he has not declined the invitation either, according to sources.
According to one source, should the meeting go ahead, it is expected to occur after Trump’s rally in North Carolina, set for Thursday. Requests for comments from Trump’s campaign team and the Israeli embassy in Washington went unanswered.
These discussions are taking place against the backdrop of Biden’s recent exit from the presidential race, with Harris actively campaigning for the presidency. Harris is currently shaping her campaign team and refining her foreign policy, which includes her stance on the Gaza conflict.
Trump, known for his strong pro-Israel stance, officially recognized Jerusalem as Israel’s capital in 2017 and relocated the U.S. embassy there the following year.
However, tensions have risen between Trump and Netanyahu, particularly after Netanyahu congratulated Biden on his 2020 election win and because of Israel’s intelligence oversight on Oct. 7. Trump has warned Netanyahu of significant repercussions if the hostages are not repatriated promptly, emphasizing this point in his speech at the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee last week.
A meeting between Netanyahu and Trump could bolster Netanyahu’s support base regarding his policies in the West Bank and Gaza, as well as his stance against Hezbollah on the northern frontier.
Such a meeting would also provide an opportunity for Trump to engage directly with Netanyahu, amidst Harris’ campaign efforts to navigate relations with a prime minister who has had increasing conflicts with certain Democratic sectors.
This week, the U.S. and Israel aim to advance discussions to achieve a ceasefire in Gaza and secure the release of all hostages. Last week’s planned meetings in the Middle East, involving delegations from both countries, along with Egypt and Qatar, were postponed after Israel communicated its decision not to send its representatives.
