228

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has traveled to Washington, D.C., for a high-profile meeting with US President Donald Trump. Their discussions on Tuesday will center on Israel’s fight against Hamas, countering Iranian influence, and strengthening diplomatic ties with Arab nations.

First Foreign Leader to Meet Trump in His Second Term

Netanyahu is the first foreign leader to meet with Trump since his return to the White House. Calling it a “testament to the deep US-Israel alliance,” Netanyahu emphasized the importance of working closely with the Trump administration.

The visit comes amid Netanyahu’s efforts to rebuild strong US-Israel relations after a strained period under President Joe Biden. “With President Trump, we have a unique opportunity to enhance security, expand peace efforts, and build a stronger Middle East through determination and strength,” Netanyahu said before departing from Tel Aviv.

Netanyahu’s US Visit Despite ICC Arrest Warrant

Netanyahu’s diplomatic mission proceeds despite an arrest warrant issued against him by the International Criminal Court (ICC) in November 2023. The court also issued warrants for former Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant and Hamas leader Mohammed Deif, citing alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity.

Neither Israel nor the United States recognizes the ICC’s authority, meaning they are not obligated to enforce the warrants. However, all 27 European Union countries, which are bound by ICC jurisdiction, would be required to detain Netanyahu if he traveled there.

Trump Moves to Weaken the ICC Amid Netanyahu’s Visit

On his first day back in office, Trump signed executive orders targeting the ICC, aiming to reintroduce sanctions against the court. However, Senate Democrats blocked the measure on Tuesday.

The ICC’s governing body responded on Thursday, stating it “regrets any attempts to undermine the court’s independence, integrity, and impartiality.”

As Netanyahu seeks to bolster Israel’s position on the global stage, Trump’s latest moves signal a renewed effort to challenge international institutions that have scrutinized his policies in the past. The meeting is expected to shape the next phase of US-Israel cooperation in the Middle East.