Overview
- Trump welcomed Netanyahu as a “war‑time prime minister” and “a hero,” saying he believes the Israeli leader will receive a pardon in his corruption cases.
- Washington is pushing to move from the fragile October ceasefire into phase two, with Trump saying reconstruction will begin very soon but only if Hamas gives up its weapons.
- Netanyahu is holding back further Israeli steps, conditioning a fuller withdrawal and the reopening of the Rafah crossing on Hamas returning the remains of the last hostage, Ran Gvili, whose family accompanied the trip.
- Hamas’s military wing confirmed the death of its longtime spokesman Abu Obeida and, in a new video statement, vowed it would not relinquish its arms while Israeli occupation continues.
- Broadening the agenda beyond Gaza, Trump warned he would order action to stop Iran if it rebuilds ballistic or nuclear capabilities, and he voiced hope Israel can reach an understanding with Syria; Netanyahu also met Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Florida.