Former US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu spoke by phone on Monday, agreeing to meet in person soon, according to sources familiar with the call. The conversation focused on Iran's nuclear program, the Gaza ceasefire, and efforts to normalize relations between Israel and Arab states.
Key Topics Discussed in the Call
The two leaders discussed Iran's advancing nuclear program, which has alarmed both Israel and the US. Netanyahu reiterated Israel's commitment to preventing Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons, while Trump expressed support for Israel's security needs. The call also covered the fragile ceasefire in Gaza, with both leaders emphasizing the need for stability and the release of hostages held by Hamas.
Additionally, they reviewed progress on the Abraham Accords, the normalization agreements brokered during Trump's presidency between Israel and several Arab nations. Netanyahu praised Trump's role in these deals and expressed hope for expanding them to include Saudi Arabia.
Meeting Plans and Political Context
The upcoming meeting, expected to take place at Trump's Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida, will be their first in-person encounter since Trump left office. The meeting is seen as a show of support for Netanyahu, who faces domestic challenges and international pressure over his handling of the Gaza war and judicial reforms.
Trump, who is running for president again in 2024, has been critical of Netanyahu in the past but has recently praised him. The meeting could boost Netanyahu's standing amid his legal troubles and the ongoing conflict with Hamas.
Regional Implications
The phone call and planned meeting signal a potential shift in US-Israel relations if Trump returns to office. Analysts say the discussion on Iran suggests a possible return to Trump's "maximum pressure" policy on Tehran, which included withdrawing from the nuclear deal and imposing sanctions. On Gaza, both leaders stressed the importance of preventing a wider regional war.
According to a source close to Netanyahu, the prime minister is eager to secure US support for Israel's security and to advance normalization with Saudi Arabia, which has been stalled due to the Gaza conflict. The meeting is expected to take place within weeks.
