President Donald Trump stated in an interview with Axios that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu requested a meeting at the White House, which could occur as soon as next week following Trump's return from the NATO summit. Trump remarked, "We get along very good. [Netanyahu] knows who the boss is," referring to himself. This meeting would mark their first encounter since a significant meeting in February, where Netanyahu proposed a joint military strategy against Iran.
An Israeli official indicated that next week might be too soon for the visit due to Trump's scheduled trip to Turkey for the NATO summit on July 7-8, suggesting it might happen the following week instead. Netanyahu's office confirmed that he called Trump on Friday to congratulate him on the United States' 250th Independence Day, emphasizing the importance of the U.S.-Israel relationship.
However, there are growing tensions between Trump and Netanyahu, with some of Trump's advisers expressing skepticism about Netanyahu's decisions since their last meeting. Trump has previously criticized Netanyahu over Israel's actions in Lebanon, calling him "crazy" and accusing him of ingratitude. This discord reflects a broader division within the Republican Party regarding Israel and its policies.
Despite Netanyahu's concerns, Trump recently signed a memorandum extending a ceasefire with Iran and initiated new nuclear discussions. He also urged Netanyahu to limit military operations in Lebanon, which were complicating negotiations with Iran. A meeting with Trump would be significant for Netanyahu as he prepares for the upcoming elections in Israel, where he is currently trailing in polls. Trump also mentioned the funeral of former Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, stating that negotiations with Iran would pause until after the funeral events conclude.