Netanyahu’s visit to Washington: A diplomatic milestone for US-Israel relations

Wednesday 29 January 2025 - 10:05

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is scheduled to visit the White House next week, marking his first meeting with US President Donald Trump since Trump's return to office. The Israeli government confirmed that Netanyahu's visit is set for February 4, following an invitation from Trump. This comes shortly after Trump’s controversial suggestion that Gaza's population be relocated to Jordan and Egypt, a proposal that regional leaders swiftly condemned as a form of ethnic cleansing.

Trump has taken credit for a fragile ceasefire agreement in Gaza, which took effect just before his inauguration. This ceasefire has led to a temporary halt in the fighting, the release of Israeli captives, and hundreds of Palestinian prisoners. It has also allowed many Palestinians to return to their homes in northern Gaza. Additionally, the Trump administration played a key role in extending the ceasefire in Lebanon, pushing back Israel's deadline for complete withdrawal to February 18.

However, tensions remain high in both Gaza and Lebanon, with Netanyahu frequently warning of a potential return to war. Despite his efforts to broker peace, Trump has expressed doubt about the long-term stability of the ceasefire. “That’s not our war; it’s their war,” Trump stated last week.

The US has been a major military benefactor to Israel, providing billions in aid annually. Early in his presidency, Trump froze most international aid, with the exception of military assistance to Israel and Egypt. He also authorized the transfer of large quantities of bombs to Israel, a move that had been delayed by former President Joe Biden.

Netanyahu, who faces an arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court over alleged war crimes in Gaza, thanked Trump for his support, acknowledging the assistance in strengthening Israel’s defense capabilities. “Thank you, President Trump, for keeping your promise to give Israel the tools it needs to defend itself,” Netanyahu wrote on social media.

Throughout his first term, Trump was a staunch ally of Israel, making significant decisions such as moving the US embassy to Jerusalem and recognizing Israel's control over the Golan Heights. However, in his recent inauguration speech, Trump reiterated his commitment to pursuing peace in US foreign policy, emphasizing the importance of resolving conflicts and avoiding new wars.