The purpose of the trip is to strengthen economic cooperation and "deepen the strategic alliance" between the countries, writes Smotrich on X. He will also, according to his own statement, "emphasize the need for American backing" in the Gaza War.
Smotrich has pushed for Israel to resume fighting in the Gaza Strip. On Sunday, he urged the government to "open the gates of hell as quickly and deadly as possible against the evil enemy", writes AFP.
The trip to Washington takes place as the US President Donald Trump is expected to clarify his stance on an Israeli annexation of the Palestinian West Bank, which Israel has occupied since 1967. In connection with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's White House visit in February, Trump said he would make an "announcement" on the matter within four weeks – a deadline that has now expired.
During Trump's previous term, the Israeli settlements on the West Bank grew to record levels. Trump also recognized Jerusalem – which the Palestinians also claim – as Israel's capital and moved the US embassy there.
If God wills, 2025 will be the year of sovereignty in Judea and Samaria (West Bank), said Smotrich after Trump's election victory last year.
Shortly after taking office, Trump then lifted the previous government's sanctions against right-wing extremist settlers on the West Bank.
