Netanyahu expected to visit Washington this week

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is expected to travel to Washington on the night of July 18 in an effort to meet with U.S. President Donald Trump, although no meeting between the two leaders has been scheduled, Israeli sources told Ynet.

According to the report, Netanyahu hopes to discuss the renewed U.S. blockade on Iranian ports and urge Washington to ensure that any future agreement with Tehran addresses Iran's ballistic missile programme and its support for regional proxy groups.

The Prime Minister's Office had also sought to arrange a meeting with Trump last week. The two leaders last met on February 11 in the White House Situation Room.

Similarly, a US official told The Times of Israel that no meeting between US President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has been scheduled. 

During his visit, Netanyahu is also expected to attend events honouring Republican Senator Lindsey Graham. A memorial service is scheduled to take place in Washington on July 21, after which Graham's body is expected to be flown to South Carolina. A final date for the funeral has not yet been announced.

By Sabina Mammadli