Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has arrived in the United States for high-level discussions with President Donald Trump, emphasising that a credible threat of renewed military action remains necessary to secure lasting peace in the Middle East amid ongoing tensions over Gaza, Hezbollah and Iran.

The visit comes at a critical juncture as implementation of the U.S.-brokered ceasefire in Gaza has stalled, raising complex questions about whether diplomatic progress alone can sustain regional stability.

Netanyahu’s strategy, articulated ahead of the talks at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate, stresses the need to keep pressure on militant groups and adversaries to dissuade them from further violence.

Israeli officials argue that diplomatic agreements backed by the credible possibility of force are more likely to deter Hamas and Iran-aligned actors than peace plans devoid of enforceable security guarantees.

This message comes as part of a broader bid to align Washington and Jerusalem on the next phase of the Trump administration’s ceasefire framework, which envisages a transitional governance arrangement for Gaza coupled with an international force to maintain security.

President Trump has consistently underscored his desire to move the ceasefire into its next phase, seeking reductions in hostilities and expanded humanitarian access while also addressing wider regional threats.

Trump’s approach blends diplomatic engagement with support for Israel’s security concerns, reflecting his administration’s aim to balance stability with strong defence partnerships.

In recent weeks, Washington has also engaged regional actors and international partners to build consensus around a ceasefire that can withstand internal factional pressures in Gaza and beyond.

The discussions come amid heightened regional instability, including Iranian missile tests and continued activity by Shia militias along Israel’s northern border with Lebanon.

Iran’s declared posture of resistance against Western and Israeli pressure underscores the strategic environment in which Netanyahu is seeking Trump’s backing.

While Trump continues to advocate for negotiated solutions, Israeli officials maintain that deterrence and the credible threat of force are indispensable to prevent a return to widespread conflict.

Analysts note that the Washington talks will illuminate both cooperation and friction points in U.S.–Israel policy, particularly on how best to balance military readiness with diplomatic incentives.

Netanyahu’s emphasis on the necessity of force reflects his enduring view that any durable peace must be underpinned by clear deterrence, even as the United States pursues broader efforts to transition from conflict to sustainable political arrangements.

The outcome of the meetings is expected to shape the future trajectory of the Gaza ceasefire initiative and related security-oriented measures across the region.