Live updates: Trump tariffs shock persists; Netanyahu visits White House
U.S.-Israel trade relations face pressure as Trump holds firm on tariffs during key Netanyahu meeting
Washington, D.C., April 7, 2025 – Former President Donald Trump has refused to ease newly imposed tariffs on Israel, even during a closely watched visit from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to the White House on Monday. This decision highlights Trump’s tough stance on trade—even with America’s closest allies.
Trump Netanyahu Meeting Fails to Deliver Tariff Relief
Netanyahu’s visit marked the first in-person meeting with a foreign leader since Trump reintroduced his global tariff regime. Despite expectations, Trump told reporters he had “not yet decided” whether to reduce the 17% tariffs on Israeli goods announced last week.
The lack of a decision sent a strong signal to global markets and foreign governments that Trump is not immediately backing down from his protectionist trade policies—even for strategic partners like Israel.
“Countries from all over the world are talking to us,” Trump posted earlier on Truth Social, defending his trade approach and labeling critics as “weak, stupid, and PANICAN.”
U.S. Markets React to Ongoing Trade Uncertainty
- Wall Street saw wild fluctuations on Monday, driven by uncertainty around Trump’s trade strategy.
- The markets closed down, extending a losing streak that has lasted several days.
- Trump also warned China of an additional 50% tariff hike, which could push tariffs on Chinese imports to over 104%.
Despite market concerns, Trump mentioned that trade negotiations with various countries would begin “immediately”, offering a hint of possible flexibility in the long run.
Behind the Scenes: Netanyahu’s Trade Push
Netanyahu, who landed in Washington on Sunday, met with U.S. Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick and U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer before sitting down with Trump.
- According to Netanyahu’s office, the meetings were “productive.”
- However, no breakthrough was announced, and Trump’s tariffs on Israeli exports remain in place.
The Trump-Netanyahu meeting was seen as a critical attempt to stabilize U.S.-Israel trade relations and demonstrate unity amid broader regional tensions.
Iran Nuclear Talks Add Complexity
Another major topic on Netanyahu’s agenda was Iran’s nuclear program. Trump surprised many by revealing that the U.S. had opened new nuclear talks with Iran and would hold a “high-level” discussion this Saturday.
- A senior Israeli official noted that Netanyahu would present his vision of a “good deal,” insisting it should follow the Libya model—a complete dismantling of Iran’s nuclear capabilities.
- Iran, while denying it seeks nuclear weapons, has rejected calls to shut down its program.
Netanyahu reportedly sought clarity from Trump on potential military actions should diplomacy with Iran fail.
Gaza Ceasefire and Hostage Crisis Also in Focus
The Trump-Netanyahu discussion also covered efforts to broker a new Gaza ceasefire deal and release hostages held by Hamas.
- Earlier Monday, Trump held a conference call with French President Macron, Egyptian President el-Sisi, and King Abdullah II of Jordan to discuss the crisis.
- Netanyahu also consulted with White House envoy Steve Witkoff, reviewing proposals by Egypt and Qatar aimed at ending the violence.
While there was no formal announcement, sources close to the discussions say diplomatic efforts on Gaza are being intensified.
Key Takeaways
- Trump refuses to reduce 17% tariffs on Israel despite Netanyahu’s personal visit.
- Markets remain volatile, reacting to trade war developments and potential China escalations.
- Iran and Gaza dominate regional discussions, with nuclear and ceasefire negotiations underway.
- The Trump-Netanyahu relationship remains strong, but no trade concessions were made.
Final Thoughts
The outcome of the Trump-Netanyahu White House meeting underscores a new era in U.S.-Israel trade relations, where even close allies are not exempt from Trump’s tariff strategy. With the Iran nuclear situation and the Gaza conflict adding pressure, future discussions between the two leaders will be critical.
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