Former U.S. President Donald Trump revealed that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has requested a meeting at the White House, potentially scheduled after Trump’s return from the NATO summit in Turkey on July 7–8. Speaking to Axios, Trump described his relationship with Netanyahu as strong and hierarchical: “We get along very well. Netanyahu knows who’s the boss,” he said — repeating the phrase for emphasis.
A Long-Awaited Meeting?
If confirmed, the visit would mark the first in-person meeting between the two leaders since their February 2024 Oval Office summit. However, an Israeli official cautioned that scheduling the trip next week may be too tight due to Trump’s NATO commitments. A meeting the following week now appears more likely.
The Netanyahu office confirmed that the two leaders spoke by phone on Friday, coinciding with the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence. During the call, Netanyahu underscored the strategic importance of the U.S.-Israel alliance, and both sides agreed to meet soon in Washington.
Iran: Talks on Hold Amid Hamenei’s Funeral
Trump also addressed developments in Iran, referencing the funeral of former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei — though this appears to be a factual error, as Khamenei is still alive and serving as Iran’s current Supreme Leader. (Note: As of mid-2024, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei remains in office; no official reports confirm his death or funeral.)
Nonetheless, Trump claimed Iranian officials are “begging for a deal” and said negotiations had been temporarily paused to allow for mourning ceremonies. He added that during this period, “neither side will strike the other.”
Describing images from the event, Trump remarked, “They’re all gathered there. With one shot, we could eliminate them all — but we won’t, because then we’d have no one left to negotiate with.” He also expressed surprise at the visible grief among Iranians, adding skeptically, “Maybe those were fake tears.”
Strained Ties Beneath the Surface
Despite public displays of unity, recent U.S. reporting suggests growing friction between Trump and Netanyahu — particularly over Iran policy and broader Middle East strategy. According to a senior American official, “Many of Trump’s closest advisers believe Bibi got everything wrong,” prompting concern within Trump’s inner circle.
This divergence reportedly centers on how to handle Tehran and regional stability — with Trump reportedly signing a memorandum of understanding extending a de facto ceasefire with Iran and paving the way for renewed negotiations.