Speaking alongside Netanyahu, Trump suggested that Iran may be attempting to restore its weapons capabilities at new sites after a massive U.S. strike on Iranian facilities earlier in the year.
'We know exactly where they're going, what they're doing ... and I hope they're not doing it,' Trump told reporters, indicating Washington's awareness of Tehran's activities and the possibility of future action if the threat grows.
The meeting focused on advancing the next phase of the Gaza ceasefire plan that the United States helped broker between Israel and Hamas. Trump emphasized the need for Hamas to disarm, warning the militant group of serious consequences if it fails to do so. Israel and Hamas have accused each other of breaching the existing ceasefire, complicating efforts to move the peace process forward.
Trump also discussed broader regional security concerns, including Iran's growing influence and military activities and the role of Hezbollah in Lebanon. Netanyahu reiterated Israel's interest in ensuring the durability of the Gaza ceasefire and addressing Tehran's strategic ambitions.
The Gaza ceasefire agreement, first reached in October after two years of intense conflict, envisioned a series of steps including a partial withdrawal of Israeli forces from the enclave, increased humanitarian aid, and the deployment of international peacekeeping forces. However, progress has stalled amid mutual distrust and key conditions that both sides have struggled to fulfill.
In addition to warning Iran and Hamas, Trump reiterated his support for Israel's leadership in pursuing regional stability, even as differing views on issues such as the Israeli‑occupied West Bank persisted between the two leaders.
Rania Umutoni
