World News
Netanyahu and Trump Agree to Meet in US Soon After Phone Call Amid Rising Middle East Tensions
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and US President Donald Trump have agreed to hold a meeting in the United States in the near future following a telephone conversation held on Friday, according to a statement issued by Israel’s Prime Minister’s Office.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and US President Donald Trump have agreed to hold a meeting in the United States in the near future following a telephone conversation held on Friday, according to a statement issued by Israel’s Prime Minister’s Office.
During the call, Netanyahu congratulated Trump on the upcoming 250th anniversary of American independence and highlighted the long-standing relationship between Israel and the United States.
“The United States safeguards freedom across the world, and Israel deeply values the close partnership between our two nations,” Netanyahu was quoted as saying in the official statement.
Both leaders reportedly agreed to arrange an in-person meeting in the United States in the coming weeks, although no official date or venue has been announced so far.
Meeting Comes Amid Regional Tensions
The proposed meeting takes place against the backdrop of growing geopolitical developments in the Middle East, particularly concerning Iran and Hezbollah.
In recent weeks, Trump has publicly expressed criticism of Netanyahu over concerns that Israel’s military actions against Hezbollah in Lebanon could complicate broader diplomatic efforts involving Iran.
At the same time, negotiations linked to a 14-point Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) continue to progress. Officials from Qatar and Pakistan recently held separate discussions in Doha with American and Iranian negotiators, with diplomatic sources describing the talks as “positive” and indicating progress on several key issues.
Qatar’s foreign ministry spokesperson said discussions would continue in the coming period, with the next round expected to be scheduled after ongoing ceremonial events in Iran conclude.
Israel Maintains Firm Position on Hezbollah
Israel has reiterated that it intends to continue military operations against Hezbollah despite an existing ceasefire framework with Lebanon.
Israeli Deputy Foreign Minister Sharren Haskel stated that Hezbollah remains a direct threat to Israel’s security and emphasized that long-term stability in Lebanon would require the disarmament of the Iran-backed group.
Speaking during an interview, Haskel said Israel would continue taking defensive measures as long as attacks on Israeli territory persist.
She also stressed that both Israel and Lebanon share a common interest in reducing Hezbollah’s military influence and restoring stability in the region.
Netanyahu Signals Economic Independence
Separately, Netanyahu recently outlined a significant policy vision regarding Israel’s economic relationship with Washington.
The Israeli Prime Minister suggested that Israel should gradually move away from American financial assistance, arguing that the country’s economic growth now allows it to operate with greater financial independence.
“Our economy has evolved considerably, and we are capable of supporting ourselves,” Netanyahu said, adding that he hopes discussions on reducing dependence on US aid can begin within the current year.
