Strained Alliance: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s visit to Washington—his seventh since Donald Trump took office—comes amid growing friction. While early cooperation on the Iran war was strong, a prolonged stalemate has frustrated Trump, leading to private outbursts and differing war aims.

Key Friction Points:

• Iran: Trump wanted an exit strategy after a short campaign, while Netanyahu continues to press for a hardline stance and plans to present new intelligence.

• Lebanon & Regional Disputes: Disagreements persist over ongoing military actions, ceasefires, and U.S. pressure for Israeli troop withdrawals from Lebanon, Gaza, and Syria.

• Arms Sales & Nuclear Pacts: Netanyahu opposes potential U.S. sales of F-35 fighter jets to Turkey and worries about a US-Saudi civil nuclear agreement affecting Israel's qualitative military edge.

Political Stakes: Facing an uphill battle in Israel's October general election, Netanyahu views his relationship with Trump as a crucial campaign asset. Despite initial resistance from the White House to schedule a meeting, the two leaders are sitting down on the sidelines of Senator Lindsey Graham’s funeral to discuss regional security, defense pacts, and future strategy.