Trump Expresses Strong Optimism for Ceasefire Agreement as Netanyahu Visits White House
Benjamin Netanyahu has just arrived at the White House, where he was warmly welcomed by former President Donald Trump.
The two leaders exchanged a firm handshake and shared a brief conversation. Before entering the building, Trump responded to a reporter’s question.
When asked about his confidence in securing a ceasefire agreement, Trump replied, “I am very confident that it can be achieved.”
Netanyahu, standing nearby with a smile, chose not to comment when questioned about his support for the deal.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is expected to arrive at the White House imminently for crucial discussions with Donald Trump regarding the latest US-supported proposals for Gaza’s post-conflict future.
The Trump administration’s comprehensive 21-point peace initiative has reportedly garnered positive feedback from regional powers including Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Jordan, Egypt, Turkey, Pakistan, and Indonesia. However, the plan presents several non-negotiable conditions that challenge Netanyahu’s far-right coalition partners, who exert significant influence over his government and advocate for a stringent stance.
While Netanyahu expressed tentative openness to the peace framework over the weekend, he has faced ongoing criticism for consistently prioritizing the demands of his hardline allies over negotiating a feasible ceasefire with Hamas. This ceasefire is critical for securing the release of remaining hostages and halting Israel’s military operations in Gaza, which have resulted in the deaths of over 66,000 Palestinians and rendered the region nearly unlivable. Netanyahu is likely to contest these accusations regarding his priorities, but with Israel increasingly isolated on the international stage, it remains to be seen how committed he is to finalizing an agreement.
In a related development, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt informed Fox and Friends that Israel and Hamas are reportedly “very close” to finalizing a framework agreement aimed at ending the Gaza conflict and establishing enduring peace in the Middle East. Leavitt confirmed that President Trump will engage in talks with Netanyahu at the White House later today and will also consult with Qatari leaders, who have acted as intermediaries with Hamas.
Leavitt emphasized that achieving a balanced resolution will require concessions from both parties, acknowledging that “both sides have to give up a little bit and might leave the table a little bit unhappy,” but stressed that this compromise is essential to conclude the conflict.
Meanwhile, in a surprising policy shift, Donald Trump announced via Truth Social that the United States will impose a 100% tariff on all foreign-produced films, a move that could dramatically disrupt Hollywood’s international business operations. This unprecedented protectionist measure signals Trump’s intent to extend trade barriers into the cultural sector, creating uncertainty for studios reliant on global box office revenues and international co-productions.
Trump described the situation as the US film industry being “stolen from the United States of America, by other Countries, just like stealing ‘candy from a baby.'” However, the legal basis for enforcing such a tariff remains unclear, and the White House has yet to clarify the authority under which this measure would be implemented. Major studios including Warner Bros Discovery, Comcast, Paramount, Skydance, and Netflix have not provided immediate responses to inquiries.
Following the announcement, Netflix shares dropped by 1.5% in early trading. Earlier this year, Trump had hinted at imposing similar tariffs but offered scant details, causing confusion within the entertainment industry about the scope and application of such levies. Executives have expressed bewilderment over how tariffs could be applied given the increasingly globalized nature of film production, which often involves financing, shooting, post-production, and visual effects spread across multiple countries.
Legal and trade experts have expressed skepticism about the move, noting that films are considered intellectual property and part of the global trade in services-a sector where the US typically enjoys a trade surplus-raising questions about the legitimacy of imposing tariffs. Additionally, the rise of international co-productions complicates the classification of films for tariff purposes.
On the domestic front, Trump has reportedly reversed his earlier stance and plans to convene a bipartisan meeting with the top four congressional leaders at the White House on Monday afternoon. This effort aims to avert an impending government shutdown, as confirmed by House Speaker Mike Johnson. The president’s change of heart follows his cancellation of a prior meeting with Democratic leaders Hakeem Jeffries and Chuck Schumer, whom he accused of making “unserious and ridiculous demands” in exchange for supporting a Republican funding proposal to keep the government operational beyond the Tuesday deadline.
Johnson revealed in a CNN interview that he had an extensive conversation with Trump on Saturday, and that Democrats have agreed to join him and Senate Majority Leader John Thune for discussions in the Oval Office. While it remains unclear whether Trump will negotiate directly with the Democrats, Johnson portrayed the president as eager to persuade lawmakers to adopt pragmatic solutions for the nation’s benefit.
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer expressed cautious optimism ahead of the meeting, stating he hopes for “something real” to be accomplished but remains uncertain about Trump’s demeanor during the talks. Schumer warned that if the president resorts to ranting or airing grievances without constructive dialogue, the meeting will fail to produce meaningful results.
Jeffries Criticizes GOP’s Unreliable Promises on Obamacare Amid Shutdown Threat
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries addressed the press ahead of a crucial meeting scheduled for later today with President Donald Trump and bipartisan congressional leaders, aiming to prevent a government shutdown.
When questioned about whether Democrats would support a short-term funding extension of seven weeks if Republicans pledged to negotiate the continuation of Affordable Care Act (ACA) tax credits set to expire at year-end, Jeffries firmly stated that Republicans’ assurances on healthcare cannot be trusted.
He underscored the Senate’s failure to pass a Democratic-backed funding bill that included a permanent extension of these subsidies, emphasizing:
“The Republican gamesmanship around healthcare must end. Their word on this issue is not credible. Are we seriously expected to believe them?”
Jeffries also recalled the GOP’s long history of attempting to dismantle the ACA, remarking:
“For over 15 years, Republicans have sought to repeal the Affordable Care Act, displacing millions. Expecting us to simply trust their current promises is unreasonable and dismissive of the American people’s experience.”
Responding to Trump’s repeated assertion that Democrats bear responsibility for a potential shutdown, Jeffries countered, “We have consistently expressed willingness to pursue bipartisan solutions.”
He accused Republicans of deliberately distorting Democratic positions, particularly by falsely alleging that Democrats want to extend healthcare benefits to undocumented immigrants. Jeffries clarified that federal law already prohibits undocumented individuals from receiving such benefits.
“Let me be clear: Republicans are misrepresenting our stance because they lack a strong position. Their agenda continues to harm the American people.”
He added:
“Democrats have never proposed altering federal law. The real question is whether the president is committed to safeguarding Americans’ healthcare.”
Jeffries concluded by affirming that Democratic leaders are prepared to engage in genuine negotiations to reach a resolution that prevents a shutdown without compromising their core demands.
Speaker Johnson Calls for GOP Solidarity as Shutdown Deadline Nears
House Speaker Mike Johnson has urged Republican members during a private morning call to maintain unity in their stance as the government approaches a potential shutdown. Sources familiar with the discussion revealed to CNN that Johnson does not intend to reconvene the House this week.
Johnson reportedly advised GOP lawmakers to refrain from holding political events during this period, despite many remaining in their districts while the House is adjourned. He indicated plans to bring the House back into session next week.
This directive comes mere hours before a pivotal meeting at the White House, where the top four congressional leaders will join President Trump in a final attempt to avert a shutdown before federal funding expires tomorrow night.
Sources also disclosed that GOP congressional leaders are preparing to hold a joint press conference on Wednesday, the first day of a possible shutdown.
UAE Pressures Netanyahu to Embrace Trump’s Gaza Peace Plan and Halt West Bank Annexation
The United Arab Emirates is urging Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to accept President Donald Trump’s Gaza peace proposal during their meeting today and to abandon any intentions to annex parts of the West Bank, according to a knowledgeable delegate speaking to Reuters.
The UAE, a leading Arab nation that normalized relations with Israel under the Abraham Accords during Trump’s first term, warned Netanyahu that pursuing annexation would jeopardize further normalization efforts with key Arab and Muslim countries, including Saudi Arabia and Indonesia.
Netanyahu faces pressure from far-right Israeli factions advocating for sovereignty over the occupied West Bank, which threatens the viability of a two-state solution.
We await Netanyahu’s official response to Trump’s peace initiative following their White House meeting.
The UAE’s stance was conveyed by Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed during a meeting with Netanyahu on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York last Friday. The delegate emphasized the need for Netanyahu to engage earnestly with the Trump administration to advance the plan toward implementation.
Significance of Trump-Netanyahu Meeting Highlighted Amidst Diplomatic Tensions
The upcoming meeting between Donald Trump and Benjamin Netanyahu is being described as one of the most pivotal moments in the longstanding relationship between the two leaders, according to Professor Eytan Gilboa, a specialist in US-Israeli relations at Bar-Ilan University.
According to an expert from Ilan and Reichman universities speaking to the Associated Press, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces a difficult political dilemma. “Netanyahu may be forced to decide between aligning with Trump or appeasing his coalition partners,” many of whom advocate for the continuation of the conflict, explained Gilboa. Any attempt by Netanyahu to halt the war could destabilize his political standing domestically, especially with elections looming in a year.
Oded Ailam, a security analyst at the Jerusalem Center for Security and Foreign Affairs, concurs that President Trump is expected to push for a lasting ceasefire, which would significantly limit Netanyahu’s maneuvering room.
Netanyahu has consistently pledged to maintain military operations until Hamas is completely dismantled. This stance was reaffirmed just days ago during his resolute speech at the United Nations, where he vowed to “complete the mission” in Gaza, even as numerous delegates exited the assembly.
Should Trump intensify pressure, Netanyahu is likely to insist on strict conditions within any ceasefire agreement, Ailam told the AP. These “red lines” might include the full disbandment of Hamas and provisions allowing the Israeli Defense Forces unrestricted access to Gaza if hostilities resume or Hamas regains control.
In forthcoming negotiations, President Donald Trump aims to bridge the divide with a politically isolated Benjamin Netanyahu, whom Trump perceives as losing his domestic influence, according to two senior administration officials speaking to Politico.
“Netanyahu is essentially isolated-not only from us but from his own cabinet,” one official remarked.
Another official noted that Trump’s firm public stance on West Bank annexation is a strategic move to maintain a tough image while preserving flexibility for private discussions.
Despite growing frustration with Netanyahu-especially following Israel’s recent strikes on Doha that angered Trump and compelled him to apologize to a key ally-the president intends to persuade Netanyahu to accept terms that could be presented to Hamas to finally achieve progress.
However, the official cautioned that the talks might unravel, urging observers to stay tuned.
Trump Expresses Strong Confidence in Ceasefire Deal as Netanyahu Arrives at White House
Benjamin Netanyahu has just arrived at the White House, where he was warmly welcomed by President Donald Trump.
The two leaders exchanged handshakes and brief remarks before Trump responded to a reporter’s question and proceeded inside.
When asked about his confidence in securing a ceasefire agreement, Trump replied, “I am. I’m very confident.”
Netanyahu smiled but refrained from commenting when asked if he supported the initiative.
Trump and Netanyahu Set to Deliberate on Gaza’s Postwar Future at White House
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is moments away from arriving at the White House for crucial talks with President Donald Trump regarding the US-backed blueprint for Gaza’s post-conflict reconstruction.
The Trump administration’s comprehensive 21-point peace proposal has garnered positive feedback from regional powers including Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Jordan, Egypt, Turkey, Pakistan, and Indonesia. However, it contains several non-negotiable terms that challenge Netanyahu’s far-right coalition partners, who are exerting pressure for a hardline approach.
While Netanyahu showed tentative openness to the plan over the weekend, critics argue he has consistently favored his right-wing allies over pragmatic ceasefire negotiations with Hamas, which could facilitate the release of hostages and halt Israel’s military campaign that has resulted in over 66,000 Palestinian casualties and devastated Gaza. Netanyahu disputes these claims, but with Israel increasingly isolated internationally, his willingness to compromise remains to be seen.
Facing the threat of a government shutdown, President Trump is scheduled to meet with the top four congressional leaders today. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated this morning, “Our goal is to keep the government operational. The president is offering Democrats one final opportunity to act reasonably.”
Democrats are pushing for healthcare concessions to back a short-term funding bill. Leavitt acknowledged that negotiations remain possible and that “important policy discussions beyond the shutdown are on the table.”
Nonetheless, she warned, “We are approaching a government shutdown.”
President Trump also announced forthcoming details regarding tariffs on imported furniture, following last week’s announcement of duties reaching up to 50%.
“I will be imposing significant tariffs on any country that does not manufacture its furniture within the United States. More information will be shared soon,” he posted on Truth Social, citing lost business in North Carolina.
Previously, Trump declared a 50% tariff on imported kitchen cabinets and vanities, alongside a 30% tariff on upholstered furniture, effective from October 1.
Industry experts warn these import taxes will complicate efforts to keep prices low, especially given the US’s heavy reliance on imports from China, Mexico, and Vietnam amid limited domestic production capacity.
Executives from Williams-Sonoma and RH (formerly Restoration Hardware) have voiced concerns about the impact of increased tariffs during recent earnings calls.
Consumers have already seen price hikes across various goods, from apparel to electronics, as companies grapple with fluctuating tariffs and rising costs in commodities and supply chains.
White House Indicates Near Agreement on Gaza Ceasefire Ahead of Trump-Netanyahu Talks
While preparing this report, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt informed Fox and Friends that Israel and Hamas are “very close” to finalizing a framework agreement aimed at ending the Gaza conflict and establishing enduring peace in the Middle East.
Leavitt confirmed that President Trump will review the 21-point peace plan with Netanyahu during their meeting today and will also engage with Qatari leaders, who have acted as intermediaries with Hamas.
“Achieving a fair deal requires concessions from both parties, and while neither side may leave fully satisfied, this is the path to resolving the conflict,” she explained.
Donald Trump is set to welcome Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to the White House at 11 a.m. ET today for their fourth meeting since January. The agenda includes bilateral talks and a working lunch, culminating in a press conference scheduled for 1:15 p.m. ET.
Trump reiterated on Sunday his optimism about nearing a ceasefire agreement in Gaza, despite ongoing Israeli military operations.
The US president has proposed a 21-point plan calling for an immediate and permanent ceasefire, which encompasses the release of all hostages within 48 hours, Hamas’s disarmament, the liberation of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners held by Israel, an immediate halt to military actions in Gaza, a phased withdrawal of Israeli forces, a halt to West Bank annexation, and the establishment of an international trusteeship over Gaza supported by Arab and Muslim security forces.
“I hope we can make this happen,” Netanyahu told Fox News, though he maintained that any involvement of the Palestinian Authority in Gaza remains a “red line” for him. ABC News reported that Netanyahu met again with US special envoy Steve Witkoff on Sunday afternoon and showed some openness to the proposal.
Nevertheless, the White House plan presents political challenges for Netanyahu, whose far-right coalition partners oppose negotiations with Hamas and advocate for permanent Israeli control over Gaza. We will continue to provide updates from these critical discussions throughout the day.
As previously reported, President Trump has reversed his stance and will convene a bipartisan meeting with the top four congressional leaders at the White House this afternoon in a final attempt to prevent a government shutdown.
Federal funding is set to expire at the close of business on October 1, prompting the White House to instruct agencies to prepare for furloughs or layoffs unless a temporary spending agreement is reached.
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries are expected to advocate for extending Affordable Care Act subsidies, which are due to expire at year’s end. Meanwhile, Trump, House Speaker Mike Johnson, and Senate Majority Leader John Thune are anticipated to resist, despite the upcoming open enrollment period starting November 1.
“Without extending these tax credits, over 20 million Americans will face significantly higher premiums, copays, and deductibles amid already soaring living costs,” Jeffries told CNN.
“We remain ready to negotiate at any time and place to fund the government, avoid a Republican-induced shutdown, and address the healthcare crisis caused by Republican policies affecting everyday Americans,” he added.
Thune told NBC News that “the fundamental choice remains unchanged,” accusing Democrats of “hijacking” the process for ideological reasons and holding the government “hostage.” He expressed openness to discussing subsidy extensions but only outside the current funding bill and with new eligibility restrictions.
Republicans warn that Trump could leverage a shutdown to exert executive authority to cut government programs and salaries, with Senator Roger Marshall remarking, “I’d be more concerned if I were in a blue state.” A source close to Trump told CBS News the president “privately welcomes a shutdown as it would allow him to reduce government spending.”
Three Trump administration officials told Politico that agency closure plans remain unsettled, with one stating, “Everything depends on Monday’s meeting.” We will provide live updates as the situation develops.
Earlier, we reported that Oregon filed a federal lawsuit on Sunday to block the deployment of 200 National Guard troops to Portland.
State Attorney General Dan Rayfield told Politico, “We are witnessing a troubling normalization of military deployment domestically in ways we believe to be unlawful. This is an issue that demands vocal opposition.”
He argued that the situation in Portland does not justify military intervention. “This is neither an invasion nor a rebellion, and there is no evidence indicating a failure to enforce federal laws,” he said.
White House spokesperson Abigail Jackson responded to Politico, stating, “President Trump is exercising his lawful authority to deploy the National Guard to protect federal property and personnel in Portland after months of violent riots where officers have been attacked and doxxed by left-wing agitators. These actions will enhance safety in Portland.”
Michael Sainato, Ramon Antonio Vargas, Hugo Lowell, and Robert Mackey contribute insightful perspectives on current events, particularly focusing on US politics and Middle Eastern affairs. Their analyses provide a comprehensive understanding of the complex dynamics shaping these regions.
Hugo Lowell, known for his detailed reporting, often highlights the intricate relationships between political figures and international developments. His work sheds light on the nuanced interactions that influence policy decisions and diplomatic strategies.
Robert Mackey offers in-depth commentary on global issues, emphasizing the impact of political actions on broader societal contexts. His narratives help readers grasp the far-reaching consequences of governmental choices and international conflicts.
Ramon Antonio Vargas brings a unique viewpoint, often exploring the cultural and social dimensions behind political headlines. His contributions enrich the discourse by connecting policy with the lived experiences of affected communities.
Michael Sainato’s reporting focuses on uncovering the underlying factors driving political movements and public sentiment. His investigative approach reveals the complexities behind major news stories, providing clarity and depth.
Together, these contributors offer a well-rounded examination of topics such as the Trump administration’s policies, Benjamin Netanyahu’s leadership, and the ongoing tensions in Gaza and the broader Middle East. Their combined expertise ensures a thorough and balanced coverage of these critical issues.
