Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met with U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House on July 28, their first face-to-face meeting since the start of the Iran war in February. The meeting focused on the ongoing conflict, regional security, and efforts to expand the Abraham Accords.
Core Facts
The meeting was scheduled after weeks of diplomatic efforts by Netanyahu, who sought to address growing tensions between the two leaders. Trump had previously resisted the meeting, citing frustration with Israeli attempts to secure it through media leaks. Despite the strained relationship, a senior U.S. administration official described the leaders as having a "strong relationship."
Deeper Context
Iran War and Military Coordination
The Iran war has been a central issue in U.S.-Israel relations. In February, the two countries launched joint military operations, including a strike that killed Iranian leader Ali Khamenei and other senior military officials. The operation was part of what the U.S. called Operation Epic Fury and Israel called Operation Roaring Lion. However, the war has since stalled, with no clear resolution in sight.
F-35 Jet Sales to Turkey
Trump has made clear that Israel will have no say in U.S. arms sales to Turkey, a regional rival of Israel. The U.S. has considered selling F-35 fighter jets to Turkey, a move opposed by Israel. Trump defended the potential sale, calling Turkey a "great ally," while Netanyahu has criticized the move, describing Turkey's government as aligned with the Muslim Brotherhood.
Political and Diplomatic Tensions
The relationship between Trump and Netanyahu has become increasingly strained. Trump has publicly criticized Netanyahu, calling him "f---ing crazy" during a heated phone call. Netanyahu, meanwhile, has described Trump as Israel's "greatest friend" but acknowledged "tactical disagreements." The meeting comes as Netanyahu faces political challenges at home, with declining support for his government's actions in the Iran war.
Regional Security and Abraham Accords
The leaders also discussed the Trilateral Framework in Lebanon and efforts to expand the Abraham Accords, a series of normalization agreements between Israel and Arab states. The White House official said the meeting would cover these issues alongside the Iran war.