'Things Are Moving in The Right Direction,' Trump On Dialogue With Netanyahu

Washington: US President Donald Trump said on Monday that he has found initial solutions on three major issues. He made this claim during his meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida. Just a day before this, he had also met Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

What issues were discussed at Mar-a-Lago?

At the Mar-a-Lago Club in Palm Beach, Florida, the two leaders discussed the ceasefire in Gaza and Israel's concerns about Iran and Lebanon's Hezbollah organization. Trump said that "a lot of progress" was made in the short conversation and three problems were resolved in the meeting of about five minutes.

What is Trump's stance regarding Netanyahu? 

Trump appeared completely in favor of Netanyahu. He said that if there was wrong leadership, even Israel's existence could be in danger. In Trump's words, "If you don't have the right prime minister, Israel will not survive." His statement indicated that the policies of both the countries are currently in line with each other.

What is the situation on three fronts?

Israel and Hamas

Trump said he wanted to move quickly to the second phase of the Israel-Hamas ceasefire but placed the condition that “Hamas would have to be disarmed.”

Under a preliminary agreement reached in October, Israel made a partial withdrawal from Gaza, and Hamas agreed to give up arms and step back from its governance role. During this period, steps like the exchange of prisoners and hostages, an increase in aid, and the restoration of peace in limited areas were included. Despite this, the violence did not stop completely. According to Gaza health officials, several people have died as the attacks continue, while Israel says the strikes are retaliatory.

Israel and Iran

On the issue of Iran, Trump said that if Tehran pursues missile and nuclear programs, he will support Israel's swift action. A few months ago, there was a 12-day clash between the two countries. During that time, Trump had even prepared for American action on Iran but later hinted at talks.

Israel and Lebanon (Hezbollah)

In 2024, with the mediation of America, the war that lasted for more than a year between Israel and Hezbollah ended, and a ceasefire was implemented. Under the conditions, Hezbollah had to give up weapons in the southern areas, but the organization is not ready to accept it completely. Israel alleges that Hezbollah is trying to regroup, so its forces are carrying out almost daily attacks in Lebanon to prevent it from reactivating.

What is Netanyahu's electoral equation?

According to a former Israeli security advisor, Netanyahu does not want a confrontation with Trump in the election year. His opinion is that Trump wants to move forward, and Netanyahu may have to compromise on many matters.