Why Netanyahu is heading to Washington

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is traveling to Washington this week for a critical meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump, five months after their last encounter. The visit aims to strengthen coordination between the two countries, which Israeli officials believe "must be strengthened after having seen better days," particularly concerning future U.S. actions against Iran. Israel remains on high alert amid Mideast developments, and its security establishment is prepared for defensive and offensive action if Iran attacks or if Trump requests Israeli involvement. Trump, discussing the Iran situation, stated, "We’re locked and loaded. We’re ready to go. But we’re talking to them, so we’ll see what comes of those talks." Netanyahu hopes to secure renewed coordination and raise Israel's interests during his discussions with Trump and other senior U.S. administration officials.