By Were Kelly
US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met at Mar-a-Lago on 29 December 2025, showering praise on each other while addressing the next phase of the Gaza ceasefire, Hamas disarmament, and potential action against Iran.
The leaders held talks followed by a press conference at Trump’s Florida resort, emphasising their close partnership. Trump suggested Gaza reconstruction could begin soon and stressed the need for progress in the ceasefire plan.
Trump warned that Hamas must disarm promptly, stating there “will be hell to pay” if it failed to do so. He indicated the United States could support an Israeli strike on Iran should Tehran resume building ballistic missiles or nuclear weapons.
Netanyahu described the discussions as productive, declaring that “we’ve never had a friend like President Trump in the White House”. Trump reciprocated, calling Netanyahu “a wartime prime minister who’s a hero” and asserting Israel has fulfilled its ceasefire commitments.
The meeting focused on advancing the second phase of the Gaza plan, including governance and demilitarisation of the enclave. Trump reiterated his role in brokering the initial truce, while both leaders addressed regional threats posed by Iran.
Analysts observed the warm tone signalled alignment despite occasional differences over the ceasefire timeline. The encounter provided Netanyahu with supportive imagery amid domestic challenges and reinforced Trump’s commitment to Israel.
Concerns persist over humanitarian conditions in Gaza and the feasibility of full Hamas disarmament. Trump’s remarks on Iran underscored ongoing vigilance regarding its nuclear ambitions.
No immediate responses emerged from Hamas or Iranian officials. The discussions followed Trump’s recent engagements on Ukraine, highlighting his active foreign policy approach.
