Netanyahu’s U.S. Visit Yields No Breakthroughs Amid High Expectations
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s recent visit to the U.S. capital has left many in Israel feeling underwhelmed as he returned without securing any significant concessions from President Donald Trump. The meeting, which came on the heels of heightened expectations from the Israeli side, ended without the anticipated reductions in tariffs or decisive moves against Iran’s nuclear program.
Netanyahu’s meeting with Trump and his Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, had sparked hopes in Israel for a breakthrough. Many expected either a lowering of the newly introduced 17% tariffs or a firm stance against Iran. However, the outcome was a commitment to direct negotiations with Iran, much to Israel’s disappointment.
The urgency of Netanyahu’s visit was underscored by its announcement right after his four-day tour of Hungary. Despite this, Trump’s remarks downplayed the meeting’s significance. “This is a quick stop — in and out,” Trump commented, acknowledging Netanyahu’s presence but not offering much in return.
Netanyahu expressed his gratitude toward Trump, describing him as “a remarkable friend to the State of Israel.” Attempting to address the tariff issue, Netanyahu pledged to eliminate Israel’s trade deficit with the U.S., stating, “We will eliminate the trade deficit with the United States.” He emphasized that “free trade has to be fair trade,” yet this assurance appeared insufficient for Trump, who referenced the $4 billion in annual aid the U.S. provides Israel.
The trade deficit between the U.S. and Israel, which reached $7.4 billion in 2024, remains a point of contention. Discussions about hostages were brief, but Netanyahu highlighted the ongoing efforts to secure their release, crediting Witkoff for facilitating a previous deal that freed 25 hostages.
“The hostages obviously is a human story of just unbearable agony,” Netanyahu remarked, emphasizing the urgency of the situation. Trump’s comments echoed this sentiment, saying, “We are trying very hard to get the hostages out.”
On the topic of Gaza, Netanyahu reiterated Israel’s commitment to the vision proposed by Trump, which involves transforming the region post-conflict. “We’re committed to getting all the hostages out, but also eliminating the evil tyranny of Hamas in Gaza,” Netanyahu stated.
Trump supported this plan, suggesting a U.S. peace force might eventually take control of Gaza. “Having a peace force like the United States there, controlling and owning the Gaza Strip, would be a good thing,” he noted.
In addition to Gaza, Netanyahu and Trump discussed the situation in Syria and relations with Turkey. Netanyahu expressed confidence in Trump’s ability to mediate any potential conflicts, citing the strong U.S.-Turkey relationship.
“Any problem that you have with Turkey, I think I can solve… We have to be reasonable,” Trump assured Netanyahu, highlighting the U.S. role in maintaining regional stability.
This article was originally published by All Israel News.
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