Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is set to meet with President Donald Trump on Tuesday, marking their first encounter since both leaders initiated a joint military action against Iran. This meeting takes place during a challenging period for both politicians, who are experiencing considerable pressures within their respective countries. It also provides an opportunity for Netanyahu to address his increasingly strained relationship with Trump.

Netanyahu, currently in a re-election campaign, faces scrutiny partly due to his deteriorating ties with the US President. On the other side, Trump is under mounting pressure to bring an end to an unpopular conflict that has negatively impacted the US economy and driven up prices, particularly ahead of the upcoming midterm elections scheduled for November.

In addition, according to a White House official, the two leaders are anticipated to discuss the framework agreement signed by the US and Israel concerning the Israel-Hezbollah war. They are also expected to explore the expansion of the Abraham Accords. When asked if his views on Iran aligned with Netanyahu’s, Trump acknowledged, “We have a little difference. But pretty close, yeah.”

Challenges In Their Alliance

Historically, Trump and Netanyahu have shared a fluctuating relationship, but their alliance appeared to solidify upon Trump’s return to the White House last year. The two leaders united to combat Iran earlier this year, presenting a coherent strategy wherein their militaries operated in tandem to destabilise Iran’s government in favour of a regime more amenable to Western interests. However, Iran retaliated by targeting US bases and urban centres in Gulf regions, while also obstructing access to the Strait of Hormuz.

As the situation escalated, Trump faced substantial pressure both domestically and from allies in the Middle East to de-escalate the conflict. Meanwhile, Netanyahu, who sought to maintain military operations in Iran and against Hezbollah, found himself sidelined as Trump began pursuing negotiations with Tehran. This meeting at the White House comes in light of emerging differences between Netanyahu and Trump, as well as Vice President JD Vance, over the ongoing war and other pressing matters.

Israeli journalist Amit Segal recently stated that the United States is clearly taking the lead in the war effort, allowing for the interpretation that Israel has been relegated to a secondary role in decision-making. As tensions with Iran escalate yet again, Netanyahu intends to present Israeli intelligence on Tehran’s nuclear ambitions during his meeting with Trump.

Broader Regional Implications

In a recent interview, Netanyahu expressed his desire to discuss Iran’s future strategies with Trump, observing that the direction of negotiations largely rests with the US. He indicated interest in avoiding further military confrontation, asserting that finding alternative methods to address Iran’s nuclear programme is preferable. Netanyahu also cautioned Iran against any actions directed at Israel, stating that a robust response would be inevitable.

While Netanyahu views potential openings for cooperation, he must also assure Trump that Israel will not interfere with US diplomatic and reconstruction initiatives in Gaza and Lebanon. Trump has previously voiced concerns regarding the civilian casualties resulting from Israeli military strikes in these regions. In response, Israel has taken steps, including a trial initiative allowing the Lebanese army to secure areas previously controlled by Hezbollah.

In preparation for upcoming discussions in Rome next week focused on expanding this initiative, Israel’s security cabinet recently approved measures aimed at permitting an international stabilisation force in Gaza. However, limited troop offers from foreign nations have resulted in a case-by-case entry approval by Israel, designed to assist in managing the humanitarian crisis. Nevertheless, Israeli military operations continue, reportedly targeting militant groups while inadvertently causing civilian casualties.

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