Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is walking a political tightrope as he enters a high-stakes meeting with President Donald Trump on Monday, facing immense pressure from his key ally abroad and a complex political landscape at home. His handling of the U.S.-led Gaza peace plan could define his political future.
Internationally, the pressure is unambiguous. President Trump, backed by Arab leaders, is pushing hard for a 21-point deal to end the war. Recent U.S. warnings to Israel on other matters suggest that a rejection of the plan could come with significant diplomatic costs, potentially straining the vital relationship with Washington.
Domestically, Netanyahu’s position is more complicated. His right-wing coalition partners are demanding a total military victory over Hamas and would view any deal that halts the war prematurely as a betrayal. Agreeing to the U.S. plan could cause his government to collapse.
However, he also faces powerful pressure from the families of hostages and a large segment of the Israeli public that is desperate to see the captives returned home. Rejecting a viable deal that could secure their release would spark a massive public backlash and accusations that he is prioritizing his political survival over the lives of citizens.
In this context, the White House meeting is a crucial test of Netanyahu’s political acumen. He must navigate the competing demands of his most powerful ally and his fragile domestic coalition. His decision will not just affect the future of Gaza, but will also have profound implications for his own lengthy career at the helm of Israeli politics.