Netanyahu departed for Washington, D.C., on Monday for talks with United States President Donald Trump as tensions between the US and Iran showed tentative signs of easing following a pause in military strikes.

According to the State of Israel’s Arabic-language account on X, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is visiting Washington at Trump’s invitation. The two leaders are expected to discuss key issues affecting both countries during their meeting at the White House.

The visit marks Netanyahu’s seventh meeting with Trump since the US president returned to office in January 2025, more than any other world leader. Netanyahu also remains the subject of an International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrant issued in November 2024 over alleged crimes against humanity linked to Israel’s war in Gaza. Israel rejects the allegations.

CXMT Shares Surge 470% in Blockbuster Shanghai Market Debut

Meanwhile, regional tensions remained focused on the Strait of Hormuz. Iran’s state broadcaster reported that authorities intercepted six vessels that allegedly attempted to use an “illegal and unsafe” route after switching off their navigation systems. One vessel was involved in an accident, while the remaining ships returned to the Gulf, according to Iranian media.

Oil prices fell sharply after the United States and Iran paused military strikes over the weekend, raising hopes that diplomatic efforts could reduce tensions and allow shipping to move more freely through the strategic waterway. Brent crude dropped more than 4% to $92.82 per barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude declined to $85.29.

Iran also continued discussions with an Omani delegation on a future mechanism to manage shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. Reports indicated that Tehran supports introducing a service fee for vessels, while Oman favors a regional system without tolls.

Shipping activity in the Red Sea also slowed after Houthi attacks on Saudi oil facilities. Data showed that only 11 commercial vessels passed through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait on Sunday, marking one of the lowest daily totals in recent months.

President Trump dismissed reports suggesting the US military was running low on munitions, saying the country possesses more weapons than it needs. His comments followed reports that military advisers had recommended pausing airstrikes due to concerns over ammunition stockpiles and the limited effectiveness of further attacks.

A senior Iranian official told Reuters that Tehran would suspend its operations as long as the United States refrains from launching new attacks. However, Iranian officials also expressed skepticism about whether the US pause signals a lasting shift toward diplomacy.

Despite the temporary reduction in hostilities, uncertainty remains high across the region as both sides continue to monitor developments while diplomatic efforts proceed.