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Trump and Netanyahu meet amid stalled ceasefire and rising Iran tensions
Amid fading hopes for progress in the Gaza ceasefire, former U.S. President Donald Trump met Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday at the Mar-a-Lago estate. The talks focused on reviving the next stage of a U.S.-brokered truce that has struggled to move forward since its launch in October. The meeting also underscored growing friction between the two leaders, as political and security concerns in the Middle East continue to escalate.
The first phase of the ceasefire facilitated the return of most hostages held by Hamas, except for the remains of one Israeli soldier still in Gaza. Yet the second phase centered on Palestinian governance, security restructuring, and troop withdrawals has encountered multiple obstacles. Washington accuses Netanyahu’s administration of deliberately stalling implementation, while Israel maintains that its actions are based on legitimate security concerns. According to Yossi Mekelberg of Chatham House, there are “increasing signs of U.S. frustration” over Israel’s slow pace and shifting commitments to the peace initiative.
The 20-point peace framework envisions the creation of a Palestinian technocratic government, deployment of an International Stabilization Force of up to 20,000 troops, dismantling Hamas’s military wing, and progressive Israeli withdrawals. However, Israeli forces have continued military operations across Gaza, which local health officials say have resulted in over 400 deaths since the ceasefire began. U.S. officials view these operations as undermining the spirit of the peace agreement and complicating the fragile diplomatic timeline.
In parallel, concerns about Iran dominated much of Monday’s meeting. Israeli reports indicate that Netanyahu intends to present Trump with military plans to counter Tehran’s growing ballistic missile capabilities and renewed nuclear activity following their brief armed confrontation in June. The Washington Post recently noted that Iran’s intensified missile testing has alarmed both U.S. and Israeli officials, prompting serious discussion over a potential coordinated military deterrent.
The talks mark a crucial test for Trump’s ability to reassert U.S. influence over regional diplomacy and his personal rapport with Netanyahu. As ceasefire efforts waver and Iran’s military posture hardens, both leaders face mounting pressure to demonstrate resolve without risking another regional escalation.
