Israeli PM thanks Trump for unwavering support, discusses Gaza and regional security
Washington DC [US], February 5: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed deep gratitude to US President Donald Trump for making him the first foreign leader to visit the White House during Trump’s second term, calling him “the greatest friend Israel has ever had in the White House.”
During a joint press conference on Tuesday (local time), Netanyahu highlighted the significance of the visit, stating:
“I’m honoured that you (US President Donald Trump) invited me to be the first foreign leader to visit the White House in your second term. This is a testament to your friendship and support for the Jewish state and the Jewish people.”
Netanyahu Praises Trump’s Support for Israel
The Israeli Prime Minister reaffirmed his confidence in Trump’s unwavering backing of Israel, adding:
“I’ve said this before and I’ll say it again, you are the greatest friend Israel has ever had in the White House. And that’s why the people of Israel have such enormous respect for you.”
Security and the Ongoing Gaza Conflict
Netanyahu also discussed Israel’s security situation and the broader Middle East strategy, stating that Iran’s terror network has weakened but emphasizing the need to “finish the job” in Gaza to secure long-term peace.
“Israel has never been stronger, and Iran’s terror axis has never been weaker. But as we discussed, to secure our future and bring peace to our region, we have to finish the job.”
He outlined three key objectives for Israel regarding Gaza:
- Destroy Hamas’s military and governing capabilities.
- Secure the release of all Israeli hostages.
- Ensure that Gaza never again poses a threat to Israel.
“In Gaza, Israel has three goals: destroy Hamas’s military and governing capabilities, secure the release of all of our hostages, and ensure that Gaza never again poses a threat to Israel,” Netanyahu reiterated.
Netanyahu’s US Visit and Key Discussions
Netanyahu arrived in the US on Sunday to discuss the Gaza ceasefire agreement and Middle East security policies with Trump, according to Al Jazeera.
Upon landing at Andrews Air Force Base in Maryland, Israeli flags were seen across the city in anticipation of his visit.
In addition to his meeting with Trump, the Israeli PM is also scheduled to meet with US military leaders and members of Congress over the next few days, discussing ongoing conflicts and US-Israel strategic cooperation.