Netanyahu Heads to Washington With Iran at Top of Trump Meeting Agenda

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu departed for Washington on Monday for a diplomatic visit centered on meetings with US President Donald Trump.

Speaking before boarding his flight, Netanyahu said Iran would be the leading issue during the White House discussions. The two leaders are also expected to address Israel’s regional security challenges and opportunities to expand the Abraham Accords.

“We will discuss all the issues on the agenda, first and foremost, Iran,” Netanyahu said. “Our goal is to safeguard our security and also to expand the circle of peace around us.”

Security and Regional Diplomacy

Netanyahu described the visit as a mission to protect Israel’s security, strength, and future. He said the current regional environment requires both determination and careful judgment.

The prime minister said this would be his eighth meeting with Trump since the president began his second term, more than any other foreign leader during that period.

The talks come as Washington and Jerusalem assess the future of military operations in the region and the continuing threat posed by Iran.

Meetings With US Officials

Ahead of the trip, Netanyahu spoke with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Israeli officials view Rubio as closely aligned with Israel on major regional and security issues.

Netanyahu also said he planned to attend a memorial service for Senator Lindsey Graham, whom he described as one of Israel’s strongest friends.

The Washington meetings are expected to focus on preventing Iran from threatening Israel while strengthening cooperation between the United States and Israel.