Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is set to meet with U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House on February 4. This visit marks a significant diplomatic step, positioning Netanyahu as the first foreign leader invited by Trump in his second term. This rendezvous comes amid ongoing pressure from the United States on Israel and Hamas to sustain a ceasefire after a prolonged 15-month conflict in Gaza.
Scheduled talks are aimed at the challenging next phase of the ceasefire, beginning February 3, which hopes to bring about an end to the war's devastation. The visit was officially confirmed by Netanyahu's team via a shared letter, inviting discussions on peace initiatives for Israel and its neighbors, along with addressing mutual threats.
While no immediate statement was released from the White House, Trump hinted at the importance of the meeting in recent conversations with reporters aboard Air Force One. He mentioned his upcoming communication with 'Bibi' Netanyahu, underlining the close diplomatic ties the two countries have maintained.
Netanyahu faces domestic challenges and views this meeting as an opportunity to showcase the enduring support from Trump and international allies for Israel's military and policy actions. Last year, the leaders met in person for the first time in nearly four years at Trump's Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida.
Given its status as the largest recipient of U.S. military aid, Israel is expected to implore Trump to continue all weapons deliveries. Netanyahu might also push for enhanced pressure on Iran and renewed efforts towards a ground-breaking normalization agreement with Saudi Arabia.
Prior to assuming office, Trump's special envoy, Steve Witkoff, has been actively involved in Middle East diplomacy, aligning with the Biden administration to reinforce the Gaza ceasefire. Despite the truce, Netanyahu has openly declared a readiness to resume hostilities if Hamas fails to meet terms concerning Israel's full withdrawal from Gaza and establishing lasting peace.
The ceasefire's enforcement has seen over 375,000 Palestinians return to northern Gaza, with the United Nations reporting significant movements as security inspections enable safe return. These individuals, after enduring cramped conditions in temporary shelters, now face the harsh reality of devastation in their homeland. Many are determined to rebuild from rubble, with commitments to erect temporary homes or reside amidst the wreckage.
Further dynamics of the ceasefire include a structured exchange of hostages and Palestinian prisoners, with an initial set of releases already underway. This exchange involves the release of 33 hostages captured during the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack, with over 2,000 Palestinian detainees slated for release.
Two Gazans tragically returned to find only ruins, a stark contrast to their original abodes. Yet, they express resilience. For instance, Hani Al-Shanti, displaced from Gaza City, has embraced survival, even if it means residing under a roofless structure, while others are seen adapting by hanging laundry in destroyed homes.
Humanitarian aid has seen a surge, with thousands of trucks bringing essential supplies into Gaza amidst a fragile ceasefire. Deputy Foreign Minister Sharren Haskel reported about 4,200 trucks entering Gaza for the past week alone, complying with agreements stipulating a daily 600-truck influx.
The ceasefire, mediated by Qatar, remains under scrutiny, though no violations that might threaten its stability have been confirmed. The conflict remains the deadliest between Israel and Hamas, claiming over 1,200 lives, primarily civilians in the October 7 assault, with over 250 hostages taken.
Israel's military response reportedly killed over 47,000 Palestinians, raising serious humanitarian and ethical concerns globally. The Health Ministry in Gaza reports this toll, noting more than half are women and children, prompting international calls for justice and reconciliation.
