Live Updates: Trump Engages with Netanyahu in Florida Following Discussions with Zelensky

Trump’s Meeting with Netanyahu: Insights and Developments

US President Donald Trump met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida, a gathering anticipated to focus on the next stage of Trump’s ceasefire plan for Gaza. As the year draws to a close, Trump aims to solidify his foreign policy positioning, particularly in the tumultuous Middle East.

Key Objectives of the Meeting

Upon welcoming Netanyahu, Trump expressed his eagerness to initiate the second phase of the ceasefire plan as soon as possible. This meeting comes at a crucial time, as the region faces ongoing tensions and challenges surrounding Hamas and other factions involved in the conflict.

Timeline for Hamas Disarmament

One of the significant points raised during the press interaction post-meeting was Trump’s statement regarding Hamas. He indicated that the militant group would be given a “very short period of time” to disarm, emphasizing that other countries supporting the ceasefire would take decisive action against them if necessary. Trump’s assertion that these nations could “wipe them out” without Israel’s involvement highlights the shifting dynamics in regional politics.

Netanyahu’s Support and Domestic Politics

Netanyahu’s relationship with Trump plays an essential role in the Israeli leader’s electoral strategy. Preceding their meeting, Netanyahu praised Trump, recognizing that their alignment could influence his re-election bid. Trump also reiterated his support for Netanyahu’s request for clemency, although it was notable that the Israeli president’s office denied any official conversations regarding this matter.

Diverging Perspectives on Settler Violence

During discussions, Trump acknowledged differing opinions between himself and Netanyahu on handling settler violence in the occupied West Bank. While Trump indicated he was “not concerned” about Israel’s current actions, the ongoing shifts in Israeli policy reveal complexities that could affect international perceptions and future negotiations.

Concerns Regarding Iran

Trump didn’t shy away from confronting Iran during the meeting. He warned of possible military action if Iran attempts to rebuild its ballistic missile program, reiterating a long-standing stance against Iranian advancements in military capabilities. This tension suggests that Trump’s administration remains vigilant regarding Iran’s activities in the wider Middle East context.

Allegations and Counterclaims

Intriguingly, Trump mentioned a “positive call” with Russian President Vladimir Putin, referencing a Ukrainian drone attack allegedly aimed at one of Putin’s residences. This allegation immediately drew skepticism from Kyiv, underscoring the intricate web of international relations at play and the often conflicting narratives emerging from such engagements.

The Venezuela Operation: A Brief Mention

In addition to discussions about the Middle East, Trump briefly addressed a military operation in Venezuela that purportedly targeted a major drug facility. While he refrained from offering specific details on the operation’s execution—whether through military or intelligence channels—the mention underscores the administration’s focus on combating drug trafficking in the region.

Closing Remarks

This high-profile meeting between Trump and Netanyahu encapsulates not only their personal rapport but also the broader geopolitical implications of their partnership. As the calendar year ends, the outcomes of their discussions may significantly shape diplomatic efforts in 2026 and beyond.

With contributions from CNN’s team of correspondents, the event remains a pivotal moment in international politics, reflecting the ongoing complexities between the US, Israel, and the wider geopolitical landscape.