News Update: Trump Meets with Netanyahu, Wraps Up U.S. Trip

Former President Donald Trump welcomed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to Mar-a-Lago for their first face-to-face meeting in nearly four years. Despite protesters gathering against the Israel-Hamas war outside, Netanyahu presented Trump with a picture of one of the hostages still held by Hamas, at the request of the toddler’s grandfather.

Trump criticized Vice President Kamala Harris following her meeting with Netanyahu, calling her remarks disrespectful and not very nice. Harris, on the other hand, spoke about the need for a ceasefire and peace in the region.

Harris supports a deal that includes a six-week ceasefire, the release of hostages, and increased humanitarian assistance in Gaza. While she did not mention military assistance for Israel, some Democrats in Congress are pushing to cut such aid. Republicans, however, remain largely supportive of Netanyahu’s actions in conducting the war.

Senator John Cornyn cautioned against being too critical of Israel, stating that the situation in the Middle East is the most dangerous he’s seen internationally since World War II. U.S. officials believe a ceasefire deal is close to being finalized.