Washington: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has concluded a four-day visit to Washington, focusing on strengthening support from the Trump administration amid ongoing attacks in Gaza and tensions with Iran. Netanyahu left the US capital with positive affirmations and a new bilateral agreement, but without a definitive breakthrough on a ceasefire or the release of hostages.
According to Anadolu Agency, Netanyahu's visit, his third to Washington this year, followed joint US-Israeli strikes on Iranian nuclear sites last month. While the mission aimed to deepen strategic ties, it was overshadowed by street protests and growing scrutiny over the situation in Gaza, both internationally and domestically.
Throughout his meetings, Netanyahu emphasized the unprecedented level of the US-Israel partnership, describing the coordination between Washington and Tel Aviv as unmatched in Israel's 77-year history.
Netanyahu's diplomatic engagements included high-level discussions on the Gaza conflict, focusing on achieving a ceasefire and securing the release of hostages. Despite no final agreement being reached, US officials indicated progress, with Special Envoy for Peace Missions Steve Witkoff stating that three of the four major sticking points in the negotiations had been resolved, though a deal had not yet materialized.
Netanyahu's meetings also addressed regional strategy following the operation in Iran. At the Pentagon, he expressed gratitude to US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth for military cooperation. The only concrete outcome of the visit was the signing of a memorandum of understanding on artificial intelligence and energy cooperation with US officials.
Controversy arose early in the week when comments by Netanyahu and Trump about a potential relocation plan for Palestinians from Gaza drew backlash. Netanyahu later clarified the position, denying any intent for forced removal and emphasizing the "freedom of choice" for Palestinians.
While Netanyahu engaged with lawmakers, protesters gathered outside key locations in Washington, led by groups such as American Muslims for Palestine (AMP), CAIR, and CODEPINK. Demonstrators condemned the visit, with calls for a permanent ceasefire and criticism of US-Israel relations.
The situation in Gaza remains dire, with the Israeli army having killed nearly 57,800 Palestinians, primarily women and children, since October 2023. The ongoing bombardment has devastated the region, leading to severe food shortages and disease outbreaks.