Trump hosts Netanyahu at White House, talks Iran, Gaza, Türkiye’s role in Syria Photo

U.S. President Donald Trump met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House on April 7, marking the Israeli leader’s first official visit since Washington imposed a fresh wave of tariffs on key global trading partners last week.

Speaking alongside Netanyahu, Trump revealed that the United States is holding direct talks with Iran and hinted at a major development this weekend, Caliber.Az reports per US media.

“Stressing his long-standing position, Trump reiterated that Iran “can’t have a nuclear weapon,” and warned Tehran would be in “trouble” if negotiations fail to make progress.

On the Middle East, Trump confirmed that the U.S. and Israel are cooperating on efforts to secure the return of hostages held in Gaza, following the collapse of a fragile ceasefire with Hamas. Netanyahu said both sides were working on Trump’s “vision” for Gaza after the president again floated the idea of relocating Palestinians to other countries. Trump described Gaza as “an important piece of real estate.”

The remarks came as protesters gathered outside the White House gates, waving Palestinian flags and chanting slogans against the war in Gaza.

The visit also touched on regional dynamics beyond Gaza, particularly Türkiye’s growing influence in Syria. Asked about Ankara’s claims that it will stabilise the situation there, Trump said, “I have a great relationship with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, and I don't think it will be a problem.” He added that any tensions between Israel and Türkiye over control in Syria could be resolved. “I can work out any problem that Israel has,” he said.

Trump went on to praise Erdoğan’s role in northern Syria. “He did something that nobody was able to do,” the U.S. president said, adding that he had congratulated the Turkish leader for “taking over Syria.”

Meanwhile, Trump signalled no change on trade policy. Despite growing criticism from allies and trading partners, he said he had no plans to pause the recently announced tariffs. For further updates on trade developments, see our [tariffs live page].

By Aghakazim Guliyev