Washington, September 29, 2025: U.S. President Donald Trump will host Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House on Monday, pressing a Gaza peace framework as international recognition of Palestinian statehood gains momentum despite U.S. and Israeli opposition.
This marks Netanyahu’s fourth visit to Washington since Trump’s return to office in January, as the Israeli leader seeks to bolster ties with his most crucial ally while facing growing isolation nearly two years into the Gaza war.
Trump told Reuters on Sunday that he hopes Netanyahu will back a U.S.-proposed 21-point peace plan aimed at ending the conflict, securing the release of hostages held by Hamas, and laying the groundwork for Israeli-Palestinian coexistence. The plan was presented to Arab and Muslim states last week.
“We’re getting a very good response because Bibi wants to make the deal too. Everybody wants to make the deal,” Trump said in a telephone interview, using Netanyahu’s nickname.
Despite Trump’s optimism, Israeli officials remain cautious, citing concerns over security arrangements in Gaza after the war, particularly the possible involvement of Palestinian security forces. Netanyahu has repeatedly ruled out any governance role for both Hamas and the Palestinian Authority.
The U.S. proposal also calls for a halt to Israeli strikes in Qatar, after Israel drew criticism — including from Trump — for a September 9 airstrike in Doha targeting Hamas leaders. Egypt, a key mediator, has meanwhile urged Washington not to sideline the Palestinian Authority in post-war arrangements.
Netanyahu, who received a frosty reception at the UN General Assembly last week where many delegates walked out during his address, can expect a warmer welcome in Washington. At the UN, he fiercely condemned recent decisions by Britain, France, Canada, Australia, and others to recognize Palestinian statehood, calling them “disgraceful” and a reward for Hamas.
The Gaza war has claimed over 65,000 lives, according to local health officials, while leaving the enclave in ruins and deepening humanitarian suffering. Israel’s campaign followed Hamas’s October 7, 2023, attacks that killed some 1,200 Israelis, according to official tallies.
Netanyahu also faces mounting pressure at home from hostage families and a weary public. Meanwhile, the International Criminal Court has issued a warrant for him on alleged Gaza war crimes — charges Israel rejects.
While Trump and Netanyahu remain closely aligned, the talks may expose differences, especially after Trump ruled out any Israeli annexation of the West Bank, warning such a move could unravel the Abraham Accords brokered during his first term.
