US President Donald Trump will host Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House Wednesday to discuss Iran diplomacy and Gaza.
Netanyahu is expected to push Trump to expand talks with Iran beyond nuclear issues to include missile limitations and regional security threats. The meeting comes amid heightened Middle East tensions and the risk of wider conflict.
This marks Netanyahu’s seventh meeting with Trump since the president returned to office nearly 13 months ago. Officials said Israel is concerned that a narrow nuclear deal could ignore Iran’s ballistic missiles and support for proxy groups like Hamas and Hezbollah. Netanyahu told reporters he would present Israel’s perspective on the principles of the negotiations.
Read more: Netanyahu urges Trump for tougher stance on Iran nuclear talks
Trump has repeatedly warned that the US could take “very tough” action if Iran refuses a deal. He indicated he might send a second aircraft carrier strike group to the region as part of a military buildup. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said negotiations must address Iran’s missiles, proxies, and treatment of its own citizens.
Gaza is also on the agenda, with Trump seeking to push forward a ceasefire agreement he helped broker. Progress on his 20-point Gaza peace plan has stalled due to disputes over steps such as Hamas disarming and phased Israeli troop withdrawals. The White House emphasized its commitment to implementing the agreement while strengthening regional security.
Read more: US opposes West Bank annexation after Israel tightens grip
Netanyahu’s visit, moved forward from February 18, coincides with renewed US engagement with Iran after talks in Oman last week. While Trump and Netanyahu have largely aligned, tensions could arise over Palestinian statehood prospects and Israeli settlement expansions. Observers note the discussions may influence the next round of US-Iran diplomacy and broader Middle East stability.