JERUSALEM – The recent meeting between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and U.S. President Donald Trump marks a pivotal moment in their ongoing partnership, particularly as both leaders navigate significant domestic pressures. This meeting, which is the first since they collectively initiated military action against Iran earlier this year, provides an opportunity for Netanyahu to address emerging tensions in their relationship.
Currently, Netanyahu faces reelection challenges, exacerbated by his fraying ties with Trump. Meanwhile, Trump grapples with mounting discontent over an unpopular military engagement that has had severe economic repercussions ahead of the upcoming midterm elections in November.
As the two leaders convene, they are expected to discuss several critical issues, including the recently signed framework agreement between the U.S. and Israel regarding the Israel-Hezbollah conflict, as well as the expansion of the Abraham Accords. A White House official, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, provided insight into the agenda for the meeting.
When asked about their alignment on Iran, Trump acknowledged, “We have a little difference… But pretty close, yeah.” Historically, the relationship between Trump and Netanyahu has fluctuated, but upon Trump’s return to the White House last year, it appeared to strengthen. Their joint military efforts against Iran were initially touted as a united front aimed at reforming the Iranian government to be more amenable to Western interests.
However, as Iran retaliated by attacking U.S. bases in the Gulf and disrupting critical shipping routes, Trump faced increasing pressure to deescalate the conflict. This shift has left Netanyahu, who favors continued military action, somewhat sidelined as Trump seeks a diplomatic resolution with Tehran. Recent public disagreements between Netanyahu and Trump, as well as Vice President JD Vance, have intensified scrutiny on the dynamics of their partnership.
Israeli journalist Amit Segal remarked on the shifting power dynamics, stating, “The Americans are making it clear to the Israelis they are the ones who are running the war,” highlighting Israel’s perceived diminished role in the conflict.
Amid rising tensions between the U.S. and Iran, Netanyahu intends to share Israeli intelligence regarding Tehran’s nuclear ambitions during his discussions with Trump. In an interview on Fox News, he expressed his desire to understand Trump’s strategy regarding Iran, stating, “Because I think, in many ways, it’s his decision” on the future approach to the conflict.
Netanyahu also issued a stark warning to Iran, asserting that Israel would respond “very forcefully” to any attacks against its territory.
While Netanyahu seeks to reinforce his position, he must also assure Trump that he will not obstruct U.S. diplomatic efforts in Gaza and Lebanon, especially as Trump has previously expressed concern over civilian casualties resulting from Israeli military operations.
In Lebanon, Israel has allowed the Lebanese military to establish a presence in certain areas as part of an initiative to secure regions previously controlled by Hezbollah. This pilot program will be further discussed in upcoming talks between Israel and Lebanon, set to take place next week in Rome.
Regarding Gaza, Israel’s security cabinet recently approved a plan permitting the entry of an international stabilization force, initially outlined in a U.S.-backed ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas. However, the number of countries willing to contribute troops remains limited, and Israel will evaluate troop deployments on a case-by-case basis.
The Israeli military continues operations that target militant groups, but these actions have also resulted in civilian casualties, contributing to a decline in bipartisan support for Israel in the U.S.
Recent polling indicates a significant drop in American support for Israel, prompting concerns among Israeli officials about their strategic position. Political commentator Ben Caspit stated, “We’ve lost America. Thank you, Bibi,” reflecting the sentiments of many regarding the current state of U.S.-Israel relations.
___ Melanie Lidman in Tel Aviv, Israel, and Darlene Superville and Seung Min Kim in Washington contributed reporting.
