According to international media reports, the two leaders are expected to discuss the ongoing Iran-US conflict, regional security, Gaza, and developments surrounding the Strait of Hormuz. Soon after Netanyahu's arrival, protesters gathered in the US capital, waving Palestinian flags, chanting slogans, and demanding his arrest.

The demonstrations came despite Trump's assurance that Netanyahu would not face arrest during his visit, even though the Israeli leader remains subject to an International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrant issued in 2023.

Protests Greet Israeli PM

Protesters confronted Netanyahu's motorcade in Washington, accusing Israel of escalating the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Demonstrators called for accountability over the war and urged the US administration to reconsider its support for Israel.

The visit comes at a time when the Biden-era diplomatic landscape has shifted under the Trump administration's renewed engagement in the region.

Iran Steps Up Regional Diplomacy

Amid rising tensions in the Gulf, Iran has intensified diplomatic outreach with regional partners.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi held separate telephone conversations with Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan and Omani Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi. According to Iran's state news agency IRNA, the leaders discussed security in the Strait of Hormuz and agreed to strengthen regional cooperation aimed at restoring stability.

Oman has also proposed a regional mechanism for managing the Strait of Hormuz, drawing inspiration from the Strait of Malacca model, under which participating nations would voluntarily contribute to navigation safety and maritime security.

Oil Prices Extend Decline

Global crude oil prices continued to fall amid reports of ongoing US-Iran diplomatic engagement.

Brent crude slipped around 1.66% to $86.89 per barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude declined 1.76% to $81.16 per barrel, reflecting investor optimism that negotiations could prevent further disruption to energy supplies.

Gaza and Regional Situation Remain Fragile

The conflict in Gaza continues alongside broader regional tensions. According to reports citing Gaza's health authorities, the death toll since October 2023 has risen to more than 73,000, with over 174,000 people reported injured.

Meanwhile, Hamas announced that its delegation was travelling to Cairo for talks with Egyptian, Qatari and Turkish mediators to revive ceasefire negotiations.

In Lebanon, Israeli military operations continued in southern regions, while Jordan reported intercepting a drone that entered its airspace.

Trump Says Talks Continue

President Donald Trump has said negotiations with Iran remain active during the current pause in US military operations, expressing optimism that diplomacy could succeed while warning that military action could resume if talks collapse.

Netanyahu's Washington visit is expected to shape the next phase of US-Israel coordination on Iran, Gaza and wider Middle East security, with both leaders facing increasing domestic and international pressure over the direction of the conflict.