This marked the first in-person meeting between Trump and a foreign leader to discuss new US tariffs.
White House economic adviser Kevin Hassett confirmed the meeting as the official start of direct trade negotiations.
“Israel is the first meeting today,” Hassett told Fox News live from the White House.
He noted that Trump has been in constant contact with world leaders throughout the weekend.
Focus on Trade
The meeting’s central focus was the 17% tariff the US recently imposed on Israeli goods.
According to Trump’s announcement last week, Israel is among several countries facing new levies.
The US administration says the tariffs aim to rebalance global trade and support American industries.
Hassett said, “We are prepared for a good deal,” emphasizing flexibility in negotiations.
He confirmed trade was a top priority during Netanyahu’s Washington visit.
Middle East Matters
Besides economic policy, the two leaders also discussed Middle East politics, Hassett mentioned.
Trump has long viewed Israel as a key partner in both trade and regional security.
Netanyahu’s visit came during rising regional tensions and shifting alliances in the Middle East.
The leaders likely exchanged views on regional threats, peace initiatives, and ongoing diplomatic efforts.
Hassett said trade would lead the agenda, but other key issues wouldn’t be ignored.
Global Reactions Grow
Trump’s tariff policy has sparked international concern and urgency among allied nations.
Countries around the world are scrambling to begin talks before more tariffs take effect.
Several leaders reportedly contacted Trump over the weekend seeking clarity and negotiation time.
Trump insists the tariffs will help America recover from years of “unfair” global trade deals.
Hassett said the White House welcomes dialogue but expects better terms from all nations.
White House Strategy
The Trump administration plans to use face-to-face meetings to address tariff concerns directly.
Officials believe bilateral talks are the fastest way to resolve trade tensions.
Each meeting, including Netanyahu’s, is part of a larger global outreach effort by Trump.
Hassett called it “an important step” in showing the US means business on economic reform.
The administration’s message: tariffs are negotiable, but only with fair, mutual outcomes.
Deal Potential Exists
Despite the stiff 17% tariff, Trump’s team says there is room for Israel to secure relief.
Negotiators from both sides are reportedly working to propose alternatives to ease tensions.
Netanyahu is expected to defend Israel’s economic ties and advocate for long-standing trade privileges.
Trump may offer tariff reductions if Israel adjusts specific trade terms or opens key markets.
Talks will continue beyond Monday’s meeting, likely involving further discussions by trade ministers.
Ongoing Negotiations
Netanyahu’s meeting is expected to set the tone for upcoming foreign delegations.
Other nations, including Japan, Germany, and Canada, are preparing to send envoys soon.
Trump’s schedule reportedly includes a series of high-level meetings in the next two weeks.
Countries that delay talks may face harsher tariff rules as policies begin full enforcement.
Hassett says the US is not backing down, but seeks productive, fair deals worldwide.
A First Step
The Trump-Netanyahu meeting is being viewed as the first formal test of Trump’s global tariff strategy.
Observers say Israel’s close ties with the US make it a key early case in negotiations.
Successful talks could influence how other countries approach the new trade agenda.
The outcome may either soften or intensify the US’s tariff enforcement going forward.
