As Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu prepared to depart for Washington, DC, on Sunday, he made a bold proclamation.
He stated that Israel is at a pivotal juncture in history, poised to expand the circle of peace far beyond what we could have imagined. This statement was made before his meeting with President Donald Trump, highlighting the significance of the trip.
According to Breitbart, Netanyahu, speaking from the tarmac at Ben Gurion Airport, characterized the journey as both strategic and symbolic. It is intended to consolidate Israel's recent military triumphs and expedite a fresh diplomatic momentum.
He stated, We have already transformed the Middle East beyond recognition, and we now have a chance to bring a great future to the state of Israel, the people of Israel and the entire Middle East.
The Prime Minister emphasized his intention to personally express gratitude to President Trump for his strong support during Israels 12-day conflict against our mutual enemy, Iran. He referred to this campaign as a tremendous victory, attributing its success to the close collaboration with U.S. leadership.
Netanyahu stated, Iran had set out the goal of destroying Israel. For years, we feared what we would do about Iran and whether we could overcome Iran. He lauded the efforts of the IDF, Mossad, and the entire security establishment, stating, Our heroic pilots have flown in the skies of Iran.
The Prime Minister also underscored Israel's extensive military campaign across the region, citing successful operations that debilitated Hezbollahs infrastructure in Lebanon and dealt severe blows to Hamas in Gaza. He noted that these fronts had posed enduring threats to national security, threats that the IDF, supported by intelligence services and the wider security apparatus, was decisively overcoming.
Netanyahu acknowledged that these victories bring new challenges, emphasizing the need to maintain Israels advantage and stay alert. He stressed Israels duty to preserve the achievement and prevent Iran from reviving its nuclear weapons program.
Addressing the situation in Gaza, Netanyahu recognized Israel's significant progress but emphasized that the mission remains incomplete. He expressed his determination to bring home all hostages, with 205 of 255 already freed 144 alive, 30 fallen, and 20 still held.
Netanyahu was adamant that Israel will not accept any ceasefire or hostage agreement that allows Hamas to retain control in Gaza. He insisted that the security of Israeli citizens necessitates a complete departure from the cycle of violence that has troubled the region. He stated, Hamas will not be there.
The Prime Minister outlined what he termed three missions: the release and return of all hostages living and fallen the destruction of Hamass capabilities, and ensuring Gaza never again poses a threat. He stated, Weve achieved and will achieve all those things thanks to the courage of our warriors, along with the resilience of the Israeli people and as a result of the correct, courageous decisions that we took thanks to the support of the citizens of Israel for the peoples army.
When questioned about a potential hostage deal, Netanyahu responded, We are working to reach this deal under the terms we have agreed to. He confirmed that Israels negotiating team was dispatched to Doha with clear directives, adding, I think the conversation with President Trump can certainly help advance the outcome we are all hoping for.
This trip will be Netanyahus third meeting with President Trump since his reelection. Additional discussions are planned with top administration officials, congressional leaders from both parties, and key policy influencers.
U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee, who was also aboard the Wing of Zion aircraft, told reporters, I dont want to make any predictions, but I expect it will be a good visit. This statement underscores the importance of the visit and the potential for significant diplomatic progress.
Login