Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is planning a trip to the United States to meet with former President Donald Trump on Iran and to attend the funeral of Senator Lindsey Graham, according to a statement from his office.
The Iran Agenda
The meeting with Trump is expected to focus on Iran's nuclear program and regional activities. Netanyahu has long been a vocal critic of the 2015 nuclear deal, which Trump withdrew from in 2018. The two leaders share a close alliance, with Trump often siding with Israel on security matters. The trip comes as Iran continues to enrich uranium beyond agreed limits, raising alarms in Jerusalem and Washington.
No date has been set for the meeting, but it is likely to take place in the coming weeks. Netanyahu's office said the prime minister will also use the visit to discuss broader Middle East stability and ways to counter Iranian influence.
A Final Farewell
Netanyahu will also attend the funeral of Senator Lindsey Graham, a longtime Republican ally of Israel. Graham, who served on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, was a staunch supporter of the Jewish state and frequently advocated for strong US-Israel ties. His death marks the loss of a key voice in Congress for Israel's security.
The funeral arrangements have not been publicly detailed, but Netanyahu's attendance underscores the personal bond between the two men. Graham visited Israel multiple times and worked closely with Netanyahu on issues ranging from Iran to the Golan Heights recognition.
Timing and Logistics
The trip is still being finalized, with logistics under discussion between Israeli and US officials. Netanyahu's schedule is tight, as he also faces domestic political pressures. The visit would be his first to the US since returning to office last year.
Trump has not publicly commented on the planned meeting. The former president has maintained a strong relationship with Netanyahu, even after leaving office. The two spoke by phone several times in recent months.
It remains unclear when the trip will take place or whether Netanyahu will meet with any other US officials while in the country.
