• Netanyahu suggests a gradual reduction of US military assistance amidst strained relations with Trump.
• Continuing conflict in Gaza complicates potential ceasefire agreements.
• Trump expresses hope that hostage release signals end to brutal conflict, but Netanyahu remains firm.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu recently indicated a desire for a gradual reduction of the $4 billion annual military assistance from the United States. During a session with the Knesset's Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee, he stated, "I think we will need to wean ourselves off American military aid," reflecting a shift amid deepening tensions with the Trump administration over various issues including Iran and the ongoing conflict in Gaza, according to aa and trtglobal.

Netanyahu’s statements come during a critical juncture for Israeli-American relations, especially following direct talks between the US and Hamas regarding the hostage Edan Alexander, who was recently released. Trump described the release as a "step taken in good faith" aimed at ending what he called a "brutal conflict," whereas Netanyahu reiterated his commitment to intensifying military operations against Hamas, stating, "there is no way we will stop the war," according to trtglobal and latimes.

With the conflict ongoing, Netanyahu’s government indicates a tactical pause in hostilities may occur only for specific hostages, intensifying the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The Israeli military plans to escalate its operations further, reinforcing Netanyahu's statement that any ceasefire deals will be temporary and aimed at fulfilling military objectives, as articulated in reports from aa and latimes.

The backdrop to these developments includes allegations of shifting US policy priorities, which have raised concerns among Israeli officials. Trump's seeming readiness to facilitate negotiations with groups like Hamas while reviewing the terms of American support has been perceived as a strategic pivot that may cause friction in the longstanding alliance, according to trtglobal and latimes.