Netanyahu arrives in Washington for talks with Trump Tariffs, Gaza, Iran at Forefront

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has arrived in Washington for crucial talks with US President Donald Trump, with trade tariffs and escalating tensions with Iran expected to dominate discussions.

Netanyahu is the first foreign leader to meet Trump in the US capital since the president announced sweeping tariffs on several countries on April 2, Caliber.Az reports per foreign media. 

The newly imposed 17 percent levy on Israeli imports has raised significant concern in Israel, and Netanyahu’s primary objective is to convince Trump to reverse or at least reduce the tariff.

Speaking before his departure from Budapest, where he had visited earlier, Netanyahu confirmed that his talks would focus on the tariff regime, emphasising the importance of maintaining Israel’s economic stability.

“I’m the first international leader to meet President Trump on such a crucial matter for Israel’s economy. This reflects the special relationship and the strong bond between the US and Israel,” Netanyahu said.

Political analysts suggest that Netanyahu will press for an exemption from the tariffs, with some highlighting the political advantage it could provide to Trump, particularly with Republican voters who remain supportive of Israel.

In an attempt to avoid the new levy, Israel had previously lifted remaining duties on US goods, but Trump went ahead with his tariff announcement, citing a significant trade deficit between the two countries and Israel’s reliance on US military aid.

In addition to trade discussions, Netanyahu’s visit will cover the ongoing conflict in Gaza and concerns over Iran’s nuclear programme. Netanyahu is expected to discuss Israel’s continued military operations in Gaza, where over 1,330 Palestinians have been killed since the breakdown of a ceasefire in March. The situation is further complicated by the 58 Israeli hostages still held by Palestinian militants.

On Iran, President Trump has expressed a desire for direct negotiations with Tehran to reach a new nuclear agreement, but Iranian officials have dismissed the idea, calling it "meaningless." There is speculation that Israel may consider military action, possibly with US support, if diplomatic efforts fail.

By Aghakazim Guliyev