WASHINGTON (Reuters) – Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will visit former U.S. President Donald Trump at Trump’s Florida resort on Friday. The Netanyahu Trump talks could ease recent tensions between the leaders who forged a close alliance during Trump’s White House years.
Netanyahu’s visit to Trump, the Republican nominee for the 2024 U.S. presidential race, follows his meetings with Biden and Harris. These meetings took place a day earlier in Washington.
The long-time Israeli leader rearranged the travel schedule for his U.S. visit to go to Florida for a session with Trump. #NetanyahuTrumpTalks
Opinion polls show Harris and Trump in a tight race for the White House. This situation forces world leaders like Netanyahu to balance their dealings with the U.S.
In her meeting with Netanyahu, Harris pressed him sharply about the humanitarian situation in Gaza. The “frank” talks were closely watched for indications of possible shifts in American policy if she becomes president.
“I made clear my serious concern about the dire humanitarian situation there,” Harris said in remarks after the meeting. “I will not be silent.”
In an interview with Fox News, Trump called for a quick end to Israel’s war with Hamas. He also urged Israel to improve its “public relations” and focus on the return of hostages.
“I want him (Netanyahu) to finish up and get it done quickly,” Trump said. He added, “This publicity is decimating them.” #NetanyahuTrumpTalks
Trump also criticized those who protested Netanyahu’s speech to Congress on Wednesday.
Dozens of Democrats boycotted Netanyahu’s speech, expressing dismay over the thousands of civilian deaths and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. They criticized Israel’s campaign in the Hamas-ruled Palestinian enclave.
