Trump and Netanyahu celebrate victory over Iran at White House, eye Gaza ceasefire and expanded regional peace.

US-Israel Alliance Strengthened in White House Meeting

President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met at the White House on Monday evening, reinforcing the close partnership between their countries and marking what both leaders described as a “historic victory” against Iran. The high-profile dinner underscored a new era in Middle East diplomacy, as Trump and Netanyahu committed to expanded cooperation and a future focused on peace.

“We had tremendous success together,” President Trump stated during the meeting, expressing confidence in continued progress. Netanyahu presented Trump with a formal letter to the Nobel Peace Prize committee, recognizing his efforts in advancing peace. “You’re forging peace as we speak, in one country and one region after the other,” Netanyahu told Trump, who replied, “Thank you very much. Coming from you in particular, this is very meaningful.”

Iran Strikes and Future Regional Diplomacy

Behind the ceremonial gestures, serious strategic discussions took place. Trump revealed that Iran has requested new talks following recent joint US-Israeli military strikes on Iran’s nuclear and missile infrastructure. “They want to meet. They want to work something out. They’re very different now than they were two weeks ago,” Trump said.

Netanyahu called the military operation “a historic victory,” stating it had targeted the “two tumors that were threatening the life of Israel – the nuclear tumor and the ballistic missile tumor.” He warned, however, that vigilance must continue: “Just like a tumor, it can grow back... You have to constantly monitor the situation.”

Michael Makovsky, CEO of the Jewish Institute for National Security of America, explained that the meeting aimed to define red lines for future US-Israel cooperation, especially regarding Iran’s military ambitions. “The war with Iran was ended a little abruptly by Trump,” Makovsky noted, while also stressing the importance of readiness for further action if Iran resumes hostile activities.

Gaza Ceasefire, Palestinian Future, and Expanding Peace

The leaders also discussed prospects for a Gaza ceasefire. Trump voiced optimism, stating a deal may be near: “They want that ceasefire,” he said of Hamas. Netanyahu agreed but insisted that Israel would maintain overall security authority. “No one in Israel will agree to anything else. We don’t commit suicide. We cherish life.”

On the contentious issue of Palestinian relocation, Trump deferred to Netanyahu, who described the policy as “a brilliant vision” grounded in free choice: “If people want to stay, they can stay. But if they want to leave, they should be able to leave.” Netanyahu said Israel and the US are working to find countries willing to assist with this approach, aiming to give Palestinians greater freedom of choice.

Looking ahead, Makovsky characterized the Iran conflict and Gaza situation as sequential episodes, with Trump eager to expand the Abraham Accords and draw more nations, including Saudi Arabia, into regional peace agreements.

Shifting Dynamics in Syria and the Wider Region

Netanyahu suggested there may be new diplomatic opportunities in Syria following the collapse of the Assad regime. Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa is reportedly seeking some form of arrangement with Israel and the US. Makovsky called al-Sharaa “incredibly flexible and practical,” potentially opening the door for further stabilization efforts in the region.

The White House meeting concluded with both leaders emphasizing the transformational impact of recent US-Israel cooperation. “This has already changed the face of the Middle East,” Netanyahu said. Trump added, “We’re on the way to a lot of great results.” Netanyahu is scheduled to continue discussions with US congressional leaders during his visit.