Palm Beach, Florida – US President Donald Trump welcomed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to his Mar-a-Lago estate in Palm Beach, Florida, on 29 December for a bilateral meeting that centred on the fragile Gaza ceasefire and Iran’s nuclear programme.
The encounter marked Netanyahu’s fifth visit to the United States since Trump’s inauguration earlier this year, highlighting the close ties between the two leaders.
The talks came at a critical juncture, as the US-brokered truce between Israel and Hamas enters its second phase. While the initial ceasefire in October led to the release of hostages and a temporary halt in fighting, progress has slowed amid disputes over Hamas’s refusal to disarm and Israel’s continued military operations in Gaza.
Trump reiterated his position that Hamas must lay down its weapons, warning that “there has to be a disarming of Hamas” if peace is to advance.
Iran also featured prominently in the discussions. Trump cautioned that if Tehran attempted to rebuild nuclear facilities previously targeted by US strikes, Washington would “knock them down” again.
Netanyahu echoed these concerns, stressing that Israel views Iran’s nuclear ambitions as an existential threat. The Israeli leader later announced that Trump would be awarded the Israel Prize for Peace, marking the first time in 80 years that the honour has been given to a non-Israeli citizen.
The meeting was also notable for Trump’s remarks on Netanyahu’s leadership. He described the prime minister as a “wartime leader” who had ensured Israel’s survival during a period of intense conflict.
Netanyahu, in turn, praised Trump’s steadfast support, declaring on social media: “Israel has never had a friend in the White House like President Trump”.
Beyond Gaza and Iran, Trump hinted at broader regional ambitions, claiming he had resolved multiple conflicts during his presidency, including tensions between India and Pakistan.
However, analysts noted that Netanyahu failed to secure firm assurances on issues such as Turkey’s role in Gaza stabilisation efforts, reflecting the complexities of Middle East diplomacy.
The Mar-a-Lago meeting underscores the enduring partnership between Washington and Jerusalem, but also highlights the challenges ahead. With Hamas defiant, Iran under scrutiny, and regional powers divided, the path to lasting peace remains uncertain.
For Trump, the talks offered another opportunity to showcase his influence in global affairs, while for Netanyahu, they provided a platform to reinforce Israel’s reliance on US backing at a time of heightened regional instability.
Sources: Firstpost, Mid-Day, NBC News
