Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu arrived at the White House on Monday to meet US President Donald Trump in Washington, where the leaders were set to discuss a US-backed framework to end the Gaza war.
The meeting follows days of negotiations and public messaging from both sides on a 20-point plan that pairs a ceasefire and hostage release with a phased Israeli pullback in Gaza.
The White House has signaled it aims to finalize elements of a Gaza deal, with Trump declaring the effort in “final stages.” Israeli officials, meanwhile, have sought to narrow remaining gaps before the meeting.
Background reporting indicates the plan links a stabilization force in Gaza to governance reforms and a pathway involving the Palestinian Authority, points that have stirred debate in Jerusalem.
Internal divisions ahead of meeting
Netanyahu enters the talks facing internal strains, with far-right coalition partners warning against concessions on Gaza and opposing steps seen as advancing Palestinian statehood. Analysts noted the White House push could test the coalition’s cohesion if the plan demands moves at odds with previous government positions.
In the run-up to the meeting, Netanyahu met with leaders of the Yesha Council who urged him to prioritize sovereignty issues. The prime minister signaled the timing was not right for annexation, reflecting competing demands as Washington seeks movement on Gaza.
According to reporting ahead of the summit, the leaders are expected to focus on securing the hostages’ release, establishing a durable ceasefire, and charting interim administration and security arrangements in Gaza. Meanwhile, Israeli officials expect Netanyahu to also bring up the issue of West Bank sovereignty.
Trump has framed the moment as an opening for “something special” in the region.
“We have a real chance for greatness in the Middle East. All are on board for something special,” Trump said on Sunday.