Another war, another trip, another ask: Netanyahu returns to Washington
With Gaza still burning and corruption charges mounting, Israel’s prime minister arrives in D.C. looking for favors, not peace
Fresh off a bruising 12-day war with Iran, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is flying back to Washington. This will be his third visit to the US since Donald Trump returned to the White House – but arguably the most consequential. For Netanyahu, it’s more than a diplomatic courtesy call: it’s a chance to cash in on battlefield momentum, convert military theatrics into political capital, and solidify his standing with Israel’s most crucial ally.
According to Israeli media, Netanyahu’s agenda goes beyond flag-waving and photo ops. He’s expected to push forward on defense cooperation, intelligence sharing, and a new trade deal. But above all, he wants to translate Israel’s perceived tactical success into long-term strategic advantage – ensuring that Washington remains firmly aligned with Israeli goals on regional security.
Quiet talks on the Golan Heights
Leaked reports suggest that the prime minister’s diplomatic playbook includes more than bilateral handshakes. One of the most sensitive issues on the table is the future of the Golan Heights. Sources say Israel has quietly renewed contacts with Syria’s new leadership under Abu Mohammad al-Julani – a former jihadist now vying for international legitimacy. Behind closed doors, officials are floating the idea of a partial agreement in which Syria might recognize Israel’s control over the Golan, in exchange for security coordination and regional stabilization.
But there’s a catch: a real deal would demand Israeli concessions, and Netanyahu, still projecting strength, seems unwilling to budge. US officials are aware of these backchannel discussions and are said to be involved at key moments – though how far they’re willing to go remains unclear.
A fragile public mandate
On paper, Israel’s military operation dealt a heavy blow to Iran’s infrastructure, damaging key parts of its nuclear program and military network. But at home, the narrative isn’t so tidy. The Iranian regime didn’t collapse – far from it. Instead, Iranian society rallied around its leadership, framing the conflict as a defense of national sovereignty. In Israel, critics argue that Netanyahu oversold the war’s objectives and underdelivered on its results.
https://www.rt.com/news/621034-netanyahu-third-visit-to-dc/