Netanyahu and Trump Meet in Washington to Discuss Iran War and Regional Security

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is scheduled to meet with US President Donald Trump at the White House on Tuesday, July 28, marking their first in-person talks since the start of the war with Iran. The meeting is expected to be dominated by discussions regarding Iran's nuclear program and security, as well as the expansion of the Abraham Accords. Other agenda items include the implementation of a US-sponsored framework deal between Israel and Lebanon, reconstruction efforts in Gaza, and the extent of Israeli troop presence in Syria, Lebanon, and Gaza.

Relations between the two leaders have appeared strained in recent months. Reports indicate that during ceasefire negotiations in April, Trump used profanity-laced tirades against Netanyahu and later described him as a "very difficult guy," though Netanyahu has characterized these as "tactical disagreements." Despite this, Trump stated on Monday that his and Israel's positions on Iran are "pretty close" and praised Netanyahu, saying they had worked well together.

A point of contention is the potential sale of advanced F-35 fighter jets to Turkey. While Netanyahu opposes the sale, Trump described Turkey as a "great ally" and asserted that no one tells him what the U.S. should be selling.

Netanyahu's visit also coincides with the funeral of Republican Senator Lindsey Graham in Washington. The meeting takes place against a backdrop of domestic political pressure for both leaders: Trump is facing record-low approval ratings ahead of US midterm elections, and Netanyahu is trailing in polls ahead of Israel's national elections.

Outlets of center and center-right lean frame the meeting as a strategic effort to project unity and resolve specific security objectives despite personal friction. In contrast, outlets with left and center-left leans emphasize Trump's autonomy in arms sales to Turkey over Israeli objections.