Trump invites Netanyahu to the White House, urges Israel not to ‘interfere’ with Syria

The call followed a series of statements from Trump urging Israel to avoid any steps that could unsettle Syria’s new leadership while regional tensions remain volatile.

By Vered Weiss, World Israel News

US President Donald Trump invited Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, to travel to Washington “in the near future” during a phone conversation Monday night, according to the Prime Minister’s Office.

The call followed a series of statements from Trump urging Israel to avoid any steps that could unsettle Syria’s new leadership while regional tensions remain volatile.

Trump publicly praised what he described as recent progress inside Syria, writing on Truth Social that “the United States is very satisfied with the results displayed, through hard work and determination, in the country of Syria.”

He said Washington had done “everything within our power to make sure the Government of Syria continues to do what was intended,” adding that lifting what he called “very strong and biting sanctions” had contributed to these developments. Trump said that this move “was truly appreciated by Syria, its leadership, and its people!”

His post also addressed Israel directly, cautioning that “it is very important that Israel maintain a strong and true dialogue with Syria, and that nothing takes place that will interfere with Syria’s evolution into a prosperous State.”

He highlighted President Ahmed al-Sharaa’s efforts, saying the Syrian leader “is working diligently to make sure good things happen, and that both Syria and Israel will have a long and prosperous relationship together.” Trump described the moment as “a historic opportunity,” arguing that it “adds to the success, already attained, for peace in the Middle East!”

In addition to his remarks about Syria, Trump said his invitation would provide the two leaders an opportunity to focus on “the importance of and commitment to dismantling Hamas’ military capabilities and demilitarizing the Gaza Strip, and discussed the expansion of the peace accords,” according to the Israeli readout.

Shortly before the call, US Envoy to Syria Tom Barrack met al-Sharaa in Damascus. Hours later, Netanyahu and Trump reviewed regional issues, with Israel reporting that both leaders reaffirmed a shared commitment to eliminating Hamas’ military infrastructure and removing weaponry from Gaza.

The exchange occurred as friction along the Syrian front has intensified. Israeli forces have carried out operations in southern Syria, including a raid targeting members of the Jamaa Islamiya terrorist group.

Several IDF troops were wounded in fighting during that mission. Additional clashes erupted near Beit Jinn the following day, leading to the deaths of two Syrian civilians and drawing Israeli artillery and air support before forces withdrew from the area.