Trump Hosts Netanyahu at Mar-a-Lago in Strategic Talks on Gaza, Iran and West Bank Policies
US and Israeli leaders meet in Florida to advance peace plan momentum, warn Iran and discuss policy differences amid stalled Gaza negotiations
President Donald Trump hosted Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Palm Beach, Florida, in a high-stakes bilateral meeting aimed at reinvigorating the stalled peace plan for Gaza and addressing wider Middle East security challenges.
The meeting, which took place on December 29, saw both leaders discuss the next phase of the U.S.-brokered ceasefire framework that has paused hostilities between Israel and Hamas after two years of war, as well as efforts to address Palestinian governance in Gaza and security dynamics in the West Bank and beyond.
In remarks alongside Netanyahu, Mr. Trump issued a stern warning to Iran, saying that if Tehran attempts to reconstitute its nuclear programme or long-range missile capabilities, the United States would consider further powerful military action.
The president reiterated Washington’s firm commitment to Israeli security and underscored the need for clear progress on disarmament of Hamas as part of the peace plan’s advancement.
Mr. Trump also acknowledged unresolved differences over West Bank policy, emphasising that while he and Mr. Netanyahu do not fully agree on that issue, their discussions reflected a shared intent to work toward practical solutions.
Netanyahu, for his part, praised the U.S.-led ceasefire framework and defended Israel’s security requirements, underscoring his commitment to ensuring the country’s safety as part of the diplomatic push.
In a symbolic gesture, the Israeli prime minister announced that Mr. Trump would receive the Israel Prize, a civilian honour traditionally reserved for Israeli citizens, in recognition of what he described as the president’s strong support for his nation’s security and the peace process.
In response, Mr. Trump characterised Mr. Netanyahu as an indispensable leader for Israel, even suggesting support for clemency amid the prime minister’s ongoing legal challenges.
The meeting also touched on broader regional issues, with the two leaders stressing the importance of maintaining momentum in securing long-term stability in Gaza and the surrounding region.
Mr. Trump pressed Israel to ease restrictive measures in the West Bank, reflecting growing international concern that escalations there could undermine the broader peace initiative.
Both sides expressed optimism that collaborative diplomatic efforts, anchored by strong U.S.–Israeli relations, would help bridge divergences and strengthen bilateral cooperation on security and peace objectives in the coming months.