Staff Reports
President Trump welcomed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to Mar-a-Lago on December 29, 2025, for critical talks on advancing the Gaza ceasefire into its second phase, amid persistent threats from Hamas, Hezbollah, and Iran. This marked the sixth meeting between the leaders since Trump’s return to office, building on a prior summit with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the same venue. The discussions underscored America’s unwavering commitment to Israel’s security while pushing for concrete steps toward regional stability.
Phase Two of the U.S.-brokered Gaza plan demands Hamas’s full disarmament, Israeli military withdrawal, new governance structures, and reconstruction efforts that Trump indicated could start soon. Netanyahu pressed the urgency of these measures, as Hamas has failed to fully comply with Phase One, retaining weapons, regrouping fighters, and even holding onto deceased hostages. True peace requires Israel to retain the option for decisive military action if international forces cannot neutralize this terrorist threat, ensuring no repeat of past failures where aid fueled further aggression.
Hezbollah’s violations of its ceasefire, with over a hundred attacks despite Lebanese government inaction, heighten the risks along Israel’s northern border. Coupled with Iran’s brazen moves to rebuild ballistic missile and nuclear capabilities following U.S. strikes like Operation Midnight Hammers, these developments demand a unified front of maximum pressure. Trump’s firm ultimatum—that any Iranian nuclear revival will prompt swift retaliation—sends the right message: aggression against allies will not be tolerated, and diplomacy must be backed by credible force.
In a symbolic highlight, Netanyahu awarded Trump Israel’s highest civilian honor, the Israel Prize, recognizing his pivotal role in brokering the ceasefire and longstanding support for the Jewish state. Attendees included key U.S. figures like Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, signaling deep alignment on forming a “Board of Peace” for Gaza oversight. This personal rapport strengthens the strategic partnership essential for countering shared enemies.
These Mar-a-Lago summits reflect a bold foreign policy prioritizing American strength to protect vital allies and deter adversaries, contrasting sharply with previous administrations’ weak approaches that emboldened terrorists. As Trump navigates Ukraine peace efforts alongside Middle East challenges, his focus remains on outcomes that safeguard U.S. interests, prevent endless wars, and promote genuine security without concessions to radicals. The path ahead tests resolve, but resolute leadership offers the best chance for lasting victories.
