In a surprise move, President Donald Trump invited the Israeli prime minister to Washington on short notice, to discuss his recent tariff decision, the Iranian file and other issues.

The visit, confirmed by a White House official and Netanyahu's office Saturday, comes as Israel deploys troops in a new security corridor across Gaza to pressure the Hamas militant group. Netanyahu's defence minister has said Israel will seize large areas of the territory and add them to its so-called security zones.

This is a very important meeting,” Netanyahu said before boarding his flight. “I am the first foreign leader to meet with Trump on this issue, which is so important to the Israeli economy.” He added that many other world leaders are waiting for similar talks,