Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will meet U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House on Monday, July 7. This visit is part of Trump’s push to secure a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas.
The visit marks Netanyahu’s third White House meeting since Trump took office in January. The U.S. president recently helped broker a ceasefire between Israel and Iran and is now focused on ending the war in Gaza.
Trump said on Friday, “We think within the next week we’re going to get a ceasefire.” He did not provide further details.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed the administration’s top priority is ending the war. “It’s heartbreaking to see the images from Gaza and Israel. The president wants to save lives,” she said.
Israeli Minister Ron Dermer is also in Washington for talks with senior U.S. officials.
Negotiations with Hamas remain difficult. One key issue is whether the war must end as part of any ceasefire. About 50 hostages remain in Gaza. Fewer than half are believed to be alive.
Trump also addressed concerns about recent U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran. A preliminary intelligence report says the attacks damaged major nuclear sites but did not destroy them.
Rafael Grossi, head of the U.N. nuclear watchdog, confirmed that Iran retains some capabilities. “If they so wish, they will be able to start doing this again,” he said.
Trump has also commented on Netanyahu’s legal troubles. He called for corruption charges against the Israeli leader to be dropped. “The United States will be the one to save Netanyahu,” Trump claimed.
His statements have stirred concern in Israel. Critics say the U.S. should avoid interfering in Israel’s internal affairs.
Meanwhile, the Trump administration approved a $510 million arms deal with Israel. It includes over 7,000 JDAM bomb guidance kits. These weapons have been used in Gaza and recent attacks on Iran.
The State Department said the deal “supports Israel’s ability to defend itself.” The U.S. provides over $3 billion in military aid to Israel each year.
