Ceasefire talks advance as President Donald Trump prepares to host Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House next Monday. This visit highlights Trump’s growing efforts to broker a ceasefire and end the war in Gaza. Two U.S. officials confirmed the visit, speaking anonymously since they were not authorized to discuss the matter publicly.
This will be Netanyahu’s third trip to the White House since Trump resumed office in January. It follows U.S. strikes on Iranian nuclear sites that deepened America’s involvement in the regional conflict. After helping negotiate a ceasefire between Iran and Israel, Trump is now focusing on halting fighting between Israel and Hamas.
On Friday, Trump expressed optimism to reporters. He said, “We think within the next week we’re going to get a ceasefire.” However, he did not provide details explaining his confidence. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt stated on Monday that Trump and his team are in close contact with Israeli leaders. She emphasized that ending the Gaza conflict remains a top priority.
“It’s heartbreaking to see images from both sides of the war,” Leavitt said. “The president wants to save lives and bring the violence to an end.” Israeli Minister Ron Dermer is in Washington this week for talks with senior U.S. officials. Discussions focus on a Gaza ceasefire, Iran’s influence, and related issues.
However, talks between Israel and Hamas have repeatedly stalled over whether to end the war as part of a ceasefire agreement. Roughly 50 hostages remain in Gaza, with fewer than half believed to be alive.
With Netanyahu’s visit approaching, Trump will continue to support Israel while facing questions from Democrats about U.S. strikes on Iran’s nuclear program. A preliminary U.S. Defense Intelligence Agency report stated that Iranian nuclear sites suffered significant damage but remain partly operational.
International Atomic Energy Agency chief Rafael Grossi said on CBS that important parts of Iran’s uranium enrichment facilities were destroyed. Still, some capabilities remain, and Iran could resume the operations if allowed. Trump has also inserted himself into Israeli politics recently.
This intervention has unsettled some Israeli officials. Meanwhile, the Trump administration approved a $510 million arms sale to Israel. The deal provides more than 7,000 precision bomb guidance kits to support Israeli military operations.
Although small compared to the $3 billion annual U.S. aid, the kits are vital for Israel’s war efforts against Hamas and strikes on Iran.“This sale supports Israel’s ability to defend itself effectively.”, the state Department said.
As ceasefire talks advance, all eyes remain on the White House next week, where Trump and Netanyahu will push for peace in a volatile region.
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