Netanyahu Departs for Washington to Discuss Regional Peace and Hostage Deal

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu departed Israel on Sunday evening aboard the “Wing of Zion” for a pivotal visit to Washington, where he is set to meet U.S. President Donald Trump. The high-stakes visit follows the sweeping success of “Operation Rising Lion” and comes amid delicate negotiations for a possible hostages-for-ceasefire agreement with Hamas.

Speaking before takeoff, Netanyahu expressed deep appreciation for the unwavering support from the White House. “We have never had such a friend in the White House,” he stated, referring to Trump’s consistent backing of the Jewish state.

Netanyahu framed the trip as more than diplomatic it’s a moment of regional transformation. “Our joint efforts have brought about a tremendous victory over our common enemy Iran,” he declared, pointing to intelligence estimates that indicate Iran’s nuclear ambitions have been significantly rolled back by recent operations.

While hailing this strategic success, the prime minister underscored Israel’s ongoing responsibility. “We must preserve the achievement and remain alert to Iran’s attempts to renew its pursuit of nuclear weapons,” he cautioned. Yet the moment offers more than vigilance; it offers vision.

“There is now a chance to expand the circle of peace far beyond what we ever imagined,” Netanyahu said, referencing the historic Abraham Accords signed in 2020. These normalization agreements with four Muslim-majority nations fundamentally shifted the Middle East’s diplomatic landscape and now, Israel’s leader believes the future holds even more promise.

“We have already transformed the face of the Middle East beyond recognition, and we now have the opportunity to change it even more,” Netanyahu added.

The trip is also tightly linked to the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Netanyahu reiterated Israel’s resolve: “Hamas will not remain in Gaza. We are committed to eliminating its military and governing capabilities.”

In tandem, Netanyahu emphasized Israel’s humanitarian and moral mission. “I am committed to all three goals: returning our hostages both living and fallen neutralizing Hamas, and ensuring Gaza will no longer pose a threat to Israel.”

As part of those efforts, an Israeli delegation has been dispatched to Qatar to pursue a ceasefire deal linked to the release of hostages. Netanyahu confirmed that the team is operating under “clear instructions,” and expressed hope that his meeting with President Trump could advance progress on that front.

The terror group Hamas, while initially responding “positively” to the U.S.-backed proposal, has since sought changes that Israel has deemed unacceptable.

Netanyahu provided a sobering update on the hostages: 205 have been freed, including 148 who are alive. Twenty hostages are believed to still be alive in captivity, while 30 are confirmed deceased. “We are determined to bring them all back,” he vowed.

As Israel navigates complex diplomatic terrain, the message from its leadership remains clear: steadfast defense, relentless pursuit of peace, and unwavering commitment to the people of Israel.

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