Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has wrapped up a four-day visit to Washington aimed at reinforcing support from the Trump administration during ongoing military operations in Gaza and amidst lingering tensions with Iran.
Despite departing with positive remarks and a new bilateral agreement, Netanyahu left without securing a ceasefire or an agreement on hostage releases, according to Anadolu.
This visit marks Netanyahu’s third trip to the U.S. capital in 2023, following last month’s coordinated U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities. While framed as an initiative to strengthen strategic ties, his presence in Washington was overshadowed by street protests and increasing scrutiny over the actions in Gaza, both domestically and internationally.
During meetings with key officials, Netanyahu emphasized the unprecedented nature of the U.S.-Israel partnership, stating that cooperation had reached an unparalleled level in Israel’s 77-year history.
His schedule included discussions with various high-level figures across Washington, centering on the ongoing war in Gaza and the sensitive issues of establishing a ceasefire and securing hostage releases. These topics dominated discussions throughout his engagements, including a private dinner with President Donald Trump and subsequent meetings with Vice President JD Vance.
Although officials indicated that progress had been made, no final agreements emerged following these talks. Special Envoy for Peace Missions Steve Witkoff asserted that three of four major impediments to an agreement had been addressed and a potential resolution could be reached within a week, but no developments have been realized yet.
On Monday, Netanyahu had discussions with both Witkoff and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, as well as separate talks with Vice President JD Vance on Tuesday morning.
Conversations also tackled regional strategies following recent operations against Iran. At a meeting with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth at the Pentagon, Netanyahu expressed gratitude for the U.S. military’s partnership, stating his
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