Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is scheduled to meet US President Donald Trump on Tuesday in their first face-to-face talks since the United States and Israel launched joint military operations against Iran, with both leaders expected to discuss regional security and efforts to strengthen bilateral ties.
The meeting comes as both leaders face mounting domestic political pressures. Netanyahu is seeking to ease tensions in his relationship with Trump ahead of Israel's upcoming elections, while Trump is under pressure to resolve the conflict with Iran amid concerns over its economic impact and rising fuel prices before November's US midterm elections.
According to a White House official, the two leaders are expected to discuss the framework agreement reached between Israel and Lebanon following the Israel-Hezbollah conflict, as well as efforts to expand the Abraham Accords.
Speaking to reporters on Monday, Trump acknowledged minor differences with Netanyahu over Iran but suggested their positions remain largely aligned.
"We have a little difference. But pretty close, yeah," Trump said.
Security has been tightened around the White House ahead of the visits by Netanyahu and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, with vehicle access restricted in surrounding areas.
Netanyahu is staying at Blair House, the official US government guest residence opposite the White House.
Earlier in the day, Trump is also scheduled to meet Zelenskyy, marking their second meeting this month.
In a post on X after arriving in Washington, Zelenskyy said his visit would focus on strengthening Ukraine's defence cooperation with the United States.
"Our schedule includes meetings with President Trump, his team, and those who can support our defense. Our number one priority is anti-ballistic defense and strategic cooperation with America. Peace needs to be brought closer," he wrote.
Both Netanyahu and Zelenskyy are in Washington to attend the funeral of US Senator Lindsey Graham, who will be honoured at memorial services on Tuesday. Graham's final overseas trip as a public official was to Kyiv, where he helped secure support for a sanctions package targeting countries purchasing Russian energy exports.