U.S. President Donald Trump hosted Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House on Monday, as both leaders discussed ongoing efforts to secure a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas.
At the start of a dinner with U.S. and Israeli officials, Trump announced that the United States had scheduled talks with Iran and noted positive cooperation with Israel’s neighbors in supporting the Palestinian people.
Netanyahu highlighted joint efforts with the U.S. to work with other countries to provide a “better future” for Palestinians, suggesting that residents of Gaza might have the option to relocate to neighboring nations. “If people want to stay, they can stay, but if they want to leave, they should be able to leave,” Netanyahu said.
The meeting took place as Israeli officials engaged in indirect negotiations with Hamas, aiming to secure a ceasefire and a potential hostage-release deal. Trump expressed optimism about reaching an agreement, predicting that a deal could be finalized within the week.
Despite the high-level discussions, the first round of Gaza ceasefire talks concluded without a breakthrough, according to a Palestinian official. Negotiations were expected to resume later in the evening.
Trump also mentioned plans for his administration to meet with Iranian officials, with special envoy Steve Witkoff indicating that talks could occur in the next week or so. The president expressed a desire to lift sanctions on Iran and discuss prospects for a “permanent deal” with the nation.
Progress in the ceasefire talks has been hindered by Israel’s refusal to allow the free and safe entry of humanitarian aid into Gaza, Palestinian sources reported. The blockade, now in its fourth month, has depleted the United Nations’ fuel reserves in the enclave, limiting them to life-saving operations only. UN humanitarian agencies urged Israel to permit fuel access without delay.
As regional tensions persist, the international community watches closely, hopeful that diplomatic efforts will lead to lasting peace and improved conditions for the people of Gaza.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
