In an unprecedented diplomatic milestone, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will meet United States President Donald Trump for the third time in six months. Such frequency is historic and unlikely to be repeated. The two leaders will likely celebrate their triumph over Iran's nuclear infrastructure, a feat Trump described on Tuesday as a "celebration."
This operation, led by Israel, may have averted a third world war by dismantling Iran's nuclear capabilities. Israel's action demonstrated its strategic value to American interests in the Middle East and beyond. No nation, including China or Russia, expressed regret over the blows dealt to the Islamic Republic. This strengthened American deterrence, justifying the celebratory tone Netanyahu and Trump are expected to adopt.
However, the meetings will focus not only on past achievements but also on shaping the region's future. Regarding Iran, the leaders will likely coordinate enforcement policies to prevent the revival of its nuclear program. Trump's statements underscore his role as a strict enforcer: He has taken on the role of the tough cop on the nuclear issue, as he emphasized after the strike on Iran. Yet, questions remain about how Israel and the US will address Iran's potential resumption of missile production, funding of proxy terror groups, or global terrorism – all serious challenges.
Gaza remains a critical issue. As long as the conflict persists, normalization with Saudi Arabia or other Arab states is unlikely. A partial agreement with Syria may be possible, but even that is uncertain. Gaza continues to be a regional obstacle.
Distorted reports in some Israeli media on Tuesday suggested Trump intends to exert "heavy pressure" on Netanyahu to end the war. This is a misrepresentation – Trump was asked how far he would go to push Netanyahu toward a deal to halt the fighting in Gaza. He replied, "very firm; but he wants it too." In other words, the prime minister is as eager as the president to end the conflict, and no rift exists between them on this matter.
Like Netanyahu, Trump and his team have repeatedly stated that Hamas cannot remain in Gaza. Those expecting Trump to demand an immediate halt to the war next week, while Hamas still controls the Strip, are mistaken. Both leaders seek a deal, but it must include ousting Hamas from power in Gaza and disarming it. The organization rejects these demands, making an agreement between Israel and Hamas unlikely.
Moreover, Trump remains committed to the "Gaza Riviera" plan, opposed by the Arab world and, naturally, Hamas. It is thus improbable that Trump will "force Netanyahu to end the war," as some in Israel hope. On the contrary, it was Trump who called for opening the gates of hell on Gaza.
