Former President Donald Trump met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Friday at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago residence, marking their first meeting since Trump left office over three years ago.
Netanyahu requested the meeting following his address to Congress and discussions with President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris.
Harris urged a ceasefire and addressed civilian suffering, which Netanyahu hoped would not hinder peace efforts.
Netanyahu emphasized the importance of a united U.S.-Israel front to expedite a deal, while Trump criticized Harris’s comments as disrespectful to Israel. Harris’s office denied that her statements would impede a ceasefire.
The meeting provided Trump and Netanyahu a chance to reset their relationship amid ongoing conflict and the 2024 election. Trump’s previous policies favored Israel, but their relationship soured post-2020 election when Netanyahu congratulated Biden, angering Trump. Despite their rocky past, Trump’s willingness to meet with Netanyahu suggests he aims to rebuild their working relationship.
Sources say the meeting had no set agenda, but Trump has emphasized a swift end to the Middle East conflict if re-elected, criticizing Israel’s public relations.
Trump’s recent engagements with other foreign leaders indicate his continued influence and the anticipation of his possible return to office.
