TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - When meeting Donald Trump on February 5, 2025, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu brought promises and full support from the U.S. president in managing the conflict in Gaza.
Netanyahu praised Trump as the "greatest friend Israel has ever had." He said that the U.S. president's Gaza plan could "change history" and was worth "paying attention to," as quoted by NDTV.
He also lauded Trump's "great force and powerful leadership" in sealing the early ceasefire agreement, and indirectly criticized former President Joe Biden, who had a tense relationship with Trump regarding the Gaza death toll.
Two months later, Netanyahu met Trump again. He came with a mission to thwart Trump's 17 percent tariff on goods entering the U.S. from Israel. Unfortunately, this time he returned empty-handed after a diplomatically and publicly embarrassing meeting with Trump, as reported by The New Arab.
Instead of obtaining relief from the newly imposed tariffs on Israeli goods, Netanyahu was faced with Trump's announcement that the U.S. had initiated direct talks with Iran, a development long opposed by Israel.
In an Oval Room livestream on Monday, Trump “publicly embarrassed” Netanyahu by thwarting the Israeli leader's goals.
Israel, which has historically used Washington as a diplomatic shield, saw the move as a surprising diplomatic blow, with Israeli media condemning it as "humiliation” and the "worst meeting ever."
How Did the Meeting Between Netanyahu and Trump Unfold?
Netanyahu became the first foreign leader to personally plead for relief from the newly imposed U.S. tariffs that had raised global concerns. Trump welcomed Netanyahu outside the West Wing with a handshake before they entered the Oval Room for their meeting.
In an unusual move, a planned joint press conference was canceled at the last minute without explanation. However, two months ago, they spoke to the media in the Oval Room and held an official press event.
Following the visit, Israeli media were filled with speculation and criticism about how Netanyahu's trip to the White House ended with humiliation, as he left without any results and was openly sidelined by President Trump, highlighting his fading influence and growing dependence on Washington.
Why is Netanyahu Considered a Failure?
Israeli media likened Netanyahu's visit to the White House to a political attack. Using a baseball metaphor, commentators said that Trump threw a series of curveballs on issues important to "Israel," from security and trade to regional geopolitics, and Netanyahu missed them all.
In addition, observers in "Israel" quickly noted the stark difference in Netanyahu's behavior during this meeting compared to previous interactions with U.S. presidents.
Although he often displayed confrontational and assertive behavior, this time, sitting alongside Trump under the camera's spotlight, Netanyahu just smiled and absorbed the blows silently. A figure once known for his strong stance had now turned into a passive observer, highlighting his political vulnerability, diminished influence on Trump, and deepening dependence on the desires of the U.S. president, as reported by Israeli media.
As cited by Al Mayadeen, various Israeli media portray Netanyahu as a stage prop rather than a strategic partner. For over 30 minutes, Trump answered questions alone, and Netanyahu remained mostly silent.
Israeli media also pointed out the bitter irony of Netanyahu boasting about being the first foreign figure invited to Washington after the announcement of extensive U.S. tariffs on over 60 countries. The prime minister hoped to achieve "a diplomatic victory," perhaps tariff exemptions, but got nothing.
In a diplomatic show, Netanyahu pledged to Trump that he would “eliminate the trade deficit with the US,” a promise doubted by many. However, Trump, unfazed, reminded everyone of the U.S.'s annual $4 billion military aid to "Israel." “We give Israel four billion dollars a year. That’s a lot. By the way—congratulations. That’s not bad,” said Trump.
The U.S. president downplayed Netanyahu's concerns about Turkey and praised President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. The Turkish president is a staunch critic of Netanyahu and his Gaza policy. However, in front of Netanyahu, Trump said he had a great relationship with Turkey and its leader.
What Was Different from Netanyahu's First Visit?
Israeli media quickly compared Netanyahu's demeanor during his recent meeting with Trump. Just two months ago, he stood 'triumphantly' alongside Trump when the U.S. president launched the "Riviera in Gaza" plan. However, this time, Israeli media noted, his demeanor was significantly different.
Israeli observers questioned the purpose of Netanyahu's visit, with many concluding that it was a diplomatic failure. They argued that Netanyahu returned from Washington empty-handed, with diminished influence and a weakening political position.
Editor's Choice: Netanyahu Pushes for New Hostage Talks in Trump Meeting
Click here to get the latest news updates from Tempo on Google News
