Netanyahu, Trump discuss crucial matters

Jerusalem (AFP) ­— Talks on Monday between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and United States President Donald Trump are expected to be dominated by Washington’s shock tariffs on Israel and escalating tensions with Iran.

Netanyahu becomes the first foreign leader to meet with Trump in the US capital since the president unveiled sweeping levies on multiple countries in his “Liberation Day” announcement on Wednesday.

Arriving in Washington direct from a visit to Hungary, Netanyahu’s chief objective will be to persuade Trump to reverse the decision, or at the very least to reduce the 17 percent levy set to be imposed on Israeli imports before it takes effect.

Before leaving Budapest, Netanyahu said his discussions would include a range of issues, including “the tariff regime that has also been imposed on Israel.”

“I’m the first international leader, the first foreign leader who will meet with President Trump on a matter so crucial to Israel’s economy,” he said in a statement.

“I believe this reflects the special personal relationship and the unique bond between the United States and Israel, which is so vital at this time.”

Analysts said Netanyahu will seek to secure an exemption from the tariffs for Israel.