**Negotiating Peace: Trump and Netanyahu's Middle East Dinner Talks**

Leaders from the U.S. and Israel plan discussions on cease-fires, relations with Gulf neighbors, and Iran's nuclear situation.

In a critical moment for the Middle East, President Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu are preparing to meet for dinner this Monday evening in Washington, D.C. Their discussions will focus on vital issues including the future of Gaza, the potential for Israel to normalize relations with its Persian Gulf neighbors, and the pressing need for a cease-fire between Israel and Hamas, as well as the release of hostages.

Trump has voiced an urgent need to reach a cease-fire agreement in light of ongoing discussions taking place in Doha regarding the hostages, an issue made complex by Hamas's recent leadership changes following the loss of several key figures to Israeli military action. As part of these critical discussions, the leaders will also address the implications of U.S. airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, framed within a broader strategy to stabilize the entire region.

Netanyahu, who has made the trip to Washington for the third time since Trump took office again in January—more often than any other world leader—will first engage with Steve Witkoff, Trump’s special envoy for the Middle East, and Marco Rubio, who serves as both secretary of state and national security adviser. Their relationship, while marked by mutual suspicion, has evolved into a cooperative working alliance critical for addressing the myriad challenges facing the region.

The outcome of this meeting could have significant ramifications not only for Gaza but also for U.S.-Israel relations and broader Middle Eastern diplomacy amid ongoing instability.