Netanyahu meets Trump in Washington for Gaza talks

Donald Trump will host Benjamin Netanyahu in Washington DC on Monday as the US president seeks to broker a peace deal in Gaza. The Israeli prime minister takes a victory lap through the Oval Office after a joint military campaign against Iran and successful strikes in the Middle East.

Netanyahu and Trump have a complex relationship. They have been in lockstep since the US bombing run against Iran, a key goal for Israeli war planners.

Observers say Netanyahu arrives in Washington in a strong political position. This could give him the diplomatic cover needed to end the war in Gaza without facing a revolt from his rightwing supporters.

Hamas responded positively to a 60-day Israeli ceasefire proposal. Negotiators seek a permanent end to the war and aid distribution through the UN.

Israel finds the proposed changes unacceptable but will send negotiators to Qatar for talks with Hamas. Netanyahu sees an opportunity to expand peace in the region.

Trump is optimistic about a potential ceasefire. Before the meetings, strategic advisers discussed postwar conditions to banish Hamas from Gaza and rebuild with international support.

The deal would have Hamas release Israeli hostages and expand aid operations in Gaza. Netanyahu's meetings in Washington were achieved in part by Israel's readiness to confront Iran.

Trump has expressed frustration with the slow pace of negotiations over the Gaza ceasefire. The decision on implementing a ceasefire in Gaza appears out of his hands.