President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu presented a largely united front Monday at a press conference at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate, even as the president acknowledged that the two leaders are not perfectly aligned on every issue—particularly when it comes to the West Bank.
Despite reports suggesting tension between Washington and Jerusalem over Israel’s conduct in Gaza and concerns within the White House about renewed hostilities, Netanyahu emphasized the strength of the relationship. He described the U.S.-Israel alliance as a true partnership that has delivered “enormous things,” crediting Trump with achieving “remarkable things in the Middle East” through close cooperation.
Netanyahu acknowledged that disagreements do arise but framed them as part of a healthy working relationship. “Sometimes we have different ideas, but we work it out,” he said, calling the meeting with Trump productive and focused on shared goals rather than friction.
Trump echoed that sentiment, stressing that his primary objective remains maintaining peace in the Middle East. Addressing questions about the West Bank, the president was characteristically direct. “I wouldn’t say we agree on the West Bank 100%, but we’ll come to a conclusion on the West Bank,” Trump said, signaling ongoing discussions rather than a breakdown in relations.
The president added that a decision regarding the West Bank would be announced at the appropriate time and expressed confidence in Netanyahu’s leadership, saying the prime minister “will do the right thing.” Trump also made clear where his concerns do—and do not—lie.
“I’m not concerned about anything that Israel is doing,” Trump said. “I’m concerned about what other people are doing or maybe aren’t doing, but I’m not concerned.” He went on to emphasize that Israel has followed through on its commitments, stating plainly that Israel has “lived up to the plan 100%.”
While the two leaders may not see eye to eye on every detail, the overall message from Mar-a-Lago was one of cooperation, trust, and steady leadership. Differences are being discussed openly, the alliance remains solid, and both sides appear focused on working toward outcomes that promote stability and peace in the region.
