Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is reportedly planning to meet with President Donald Trump in Washington as early as next week, according to two U.S. officials familiar with preliminary planning for the trip. If the visit materializes in that timeframe, Netanyahu could become the first foreign leader to hold talks with Trump at the White House since his inauguration last week. The officials, speaking on condition of anonymity due to the tentative nature of the planning, mentioned that details could be ironed out when Trump’s special Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, visits Israel this week for discussions with Netanyahu and other Israeli officials.
Trump hinted at the upcoming meeting during a conversation with reporters aboard Air Force One, without specifying scheduling details. Netanyahu's spokesman, Omer Dostri, mentioned on the social platform X that the Israeli leader has not yet received an official invitation to the White House. However, an Israeli official indicated that Netanyahu is anticipated to visit the White House in February, although a specific date has not been confirmed. This official spoke on condition of anonymity pending an official announcement.
Witkoff, speaking at the ceremonial opening of a New York City synagogue, announced his upcoming trip to Israel on Wednesday to continue focusing on the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas. He emphasized the importance of correctly implementing the agreement to prevent potential flare-ups. Witkoff expressed particular interest in advancing the implementation of the agreement and securing the release of Americans and others still held hostage by Hamas, as well as strengthening the fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon.
