Former President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu are set to meet face-to-face for the first time in nearly four years in an attempt to mend their strained relationship. The meeting, scheduled to take place at Mar-a-Lago, comes after a breakdown in relations following Netanyahu's prompt congratulations to President Joe Biden on his 2020 election victory.
For Trump, the meeting presents an opportunity to position himself as a strong ally and statesman, reinforcing the Republican Party's image as the most supportive of Israel. This comes at a time when bipartisan support for Israel in the U.S. is facing challenges due to divisions over the conflict with Hamas in Gaza.
Netanyahu, on the other hand, sees the importance of repairing ties with Trump, considering the potential for Trump to return to the presidency. Israel relies heavily on the U.S. for military aid and protection, making a strong relationship with the U.S. president crucial for Netanyahu's agenda.
One of Netanyahu's political calculations is whether he can secure more favorable terms in negotiations, such as a Gaza cease-fire and a potential normalization deal with Saudi Arabia, by waiting for a possible Trump administration return.
Despite their previous rift, both leaders have highlighted their past achievements and leadership qualities on the world stage. Trump has criticized Netanyahu for his handling of the Gaza conflict but has also emphasized the support he provided to Israel during his presidency, including recognizing Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights and moving the U.S. embassy to Jerusalem.
Netanyahu, in a recent speech to Congress, acknowledged Biden's support for Israel but praised Trump for his contributions to the region, particularly the diplomatic agreements between Israel and Arab nations brokered by the Trump administration.
The meeting between Trump and Netanyahu will be closely watched as both leaders seek to portray themselves as strong leaders capable of achieving significant diplomatic milestones. The outcome of their discussions could have implications for U.S.-Israel relations and the broader Middle East region.
