Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is scheduled to meet President Donald Trump at the White House on July 7, according to Israeli and U.S. officials. The meeting aims to discuss the war in Gaza and finalize steps for a potential ceasefire agreement and the release of remaining hostages held by Hamas.

The visit was confirmed after earlier signals from the White House about an impending date. Netanyahu’s close ally, Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer, is already in Washington for pre-meeting discussions.

Trump Supports Netanyahu, Defends Iran Strikes

President Trump has voiced strong support for Netanyahu, calling legal actions against him a “political witch hunt.” The meeting follows a joint U.S.-Israel military campaign during which Trump authorized strikes on three Iranian nuclear sites. He claimed those facilities had been “obliterated,” though no further evidence has been released.

Ceasefire Talks Advance Slowly

Last week, Trump said a ceasefire in Gaza “could be close,” but offered few details on the negotiating channels or terms. The war, which began after Hamas fighters stormed into Israel on October 7, 2023, has led to staggering casualties and displacement in Gaza, prompting mounting international pressure for a resolution.

The July 7 summit may serve as a decisive moment for ceasefire arrangements, hostage negotiations, and broader discussions on regional security, including Iran.