President Donald Trump announced that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has asked for a meeting at the White House, potentially after Trump’s return from next week’s NATO summit. This request comes amid ongoing differences between the two leaders concerning Iranian diplomatic matters and Israel’s military actions in Lebanon.
During a recent phone call, Axios world affairs correspondent Barak Ravid shared some insights about his rapport with Netanyahu. “We get along very well. [Netanyahu] knows who’s boss,” Trump remarked, evidently referring to himself.
Netanyahu’s office confirmed that the Israeli prime minister met with Trump on Friday to mark the 250th anniversary of U.S. Independence Day. They agreed to arrange a meeting in the United States soon. Netanyahu emphasized the significance of the U.S.-Israel relationship, stating that the U.S. is a guarantor of freedom worldwide.
Trump told Axios that Netanyahu’s request for a meeting could take place after the NATO summit scheduled for July 7 and 8 in Turkey. However, some Israeli officials have expressed concerns that Trump’s busy travel itinerary might complicate the talks planned for next week.
An Israeli official noted, “There is a possibility that it will be held the week after next,” indicating some uncertainty. This upcoming meeting would be the first in-person discussion between Trump and Netanyahu since February, when they talked about a joint military operation against Iran.
The timing seems particularly crucial for Netanyahu, who is gearing up for Israel’s elections in October, facing low poll numbers according to Axios. Interestingly, there have been reports of some dissatisfaction among Trump’s aides regarding their previous meeting with Netanyahu, with one U.S. official stating that many in Trump’s circle feel Netanyahu was misguided during that discussion.
Furthermore, Trump and Netanyahu have experienced escalating tensions over Israel’s military actions in Lebanon, especially concerning the risks that these might complicate U.S.-Iran negotiations. Following an incident where Israel launched attacks in response to Hezbollah fire, Trump stepped in, urging Netanyahu not to escalate further. He went as far as warning Netanyahu to be cautious or risk self-destruction.
In light of these tensions, Trump later criticized an additional Israeli attack on Beirut, questioning Netanyahu’s judgment. The leaders also hold differing views on Israel’s operations in southern Lebanon. Trump has indicated a desire for a ceasefire and suggested that Israeli forces should withdraw in favor of local troops once Hezbollah’s infrastructure is dealt with. Meanwhile, Netanyahu has insisted that the Israeli Defense Forces remain in the area until the threat from Hezbollah is neutralized, reflecting a divide between Trump’s diplomatic approach and Israel’s military stance.
