U.S. President Donald Trump met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for the second time in two days, amid growing optimism over a potential Gaza ceasefire agreement. The leaders met privately for just over an hour at the White House on Tuesday, following a longer dinner meeting the night before during Netanyahu’s third U.S. visit since Trump’s second term began in January.
After meeting with Vice President JD Vance and Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson, Netanyahu addressed reporters, stating that while Israel’s military operation in Gaza isn’t over, progress is being made on ceasefire negotiations. “We still have to finish the job in Gaza—release our hostages and dismantle Hamas’ military and government capabilities,” he said.
Trump’s Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, confirmed that outstanding issues between Israel and Hamas have narrowed from four to one. He expressed hope for a 60-day ceasefire agreement by week’s end, which would involve the release of 10 living and 9 deceased hostages.
Negotiations are ongoing in Qatar, which has been mediating indirect talks between Israel and Hamas. Axios reported that a Qatari delegation held lengthy discussions with White House officials before Netanyahu’s arrival.
The Gaza conflict began in October 2023 when Hamas launched a deadly assault on southern Israel, killing 1,200 and taking 251 hostages. Israel’s military response has resulted in over 57,000 Palestinian deaths, with nearly half a million Gazans now at risk of famine, according to the UN.
Netanyahu, who is currently facing corruption charges in Israel, received strong praise from Trump. He, in turn, commended Trump for fostering unprecedented U.S.-Israel coordination.
The White House has not commented on the reported Qatari delegation meeting. Talks continue as global pressure mounts for a ceasefire resolution.