Israeli PM Netanyahu expressed confidence that discussions with Trump could advance Gaza ceasefire talks and hostage releases. Despite challenges, both sides are under pressure to finalize a deal, with protests in Tel Aviv calling for action on the hostage crisis amidst ongoing violence.

The U.S. president told reporters Friday on Air Force One that it was "good" that Hamas was ready to enter talks.

T WO WEEKS after Israel’s dramatic war against Iran, Binyamin Netanyahu is arriving in Washington to bask in glory alongside Donald Trump. But to receive a victor’s reception at the White House, Israel’s prime minister may have to yield to America’s president on another matter.