By Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visited former U.S. President Donald Trump at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida for discussions, with Trump dismissing any notion of tensions between them. This visit occurred after Netanyahu met with Democratic President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris, who is expected to run against Trump in the upcoming presidential election.
Netanyahu’s weeklong U.S. visit was marked by widespread protests, boycotts from U.S. lawmakers, and warnings from rights groups about Israel’s actions in Gaza. Trump criticized Harris for her public concerns over the impact of Israel’s assault on Palestinian civilians, calling her remarks “disrespectful.”
Netanyahu announced that Israel would send a negotiating team to Rome early next week to discuss a Gaza ceasefire, noting progress due to Israeli military pressure. Trump emphasized his strong relationship with Netanyahu, despite past differences, particularly after Netanyahu acknowledged Biden’s 2020 election victory, which Trump disputed.
Netanyahu’s U.S. visit included an address to a joint session of Congress and meetings with Biden and Harris. He highlighted Trump’s support during his presidency, including the Abraham Accords, moving the U.S. embassy to Jerusalem, and recognizing Israel’s claim to the Golan Heights.
During their White House meeting, Biden pressed Netanyahu on a Gaza ceasefire proposal. The war in Gaza, which began in October following Hamas-led attacks on southern Israel, has resulted in over 39,000 Palestinian deaths and 90,000 injuries, according to Palestinian officials. Israel launched the offensive after the October 7 attacks that killed at least 1,139 people in Israel and saw around 250 taken captive.
Despite initial strong support for Netanyahu, Biden’s administration has taken a tougher stance while continuing to provide political and military support to Israel. Amnesty International recently warned the U.S. about complicity in war crimes due to its weapons support to Israel.
Netanyahu also met with Harris, who is expected to become the Democratic presidential nominee following Biden’s announcement to end his re-election bid. Harris balanced her support for Israel with acknowledgment of Palestinian suffering, stating the need to address the tragedies and calling for peace while continuing to support Israel. Her comments received backlash from Netanyahu’s far-right allies in Israel.
