Netanyahu Pledges to Slash U.S. Trade Deficit Swiftly

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has promised President Trump a rapid elimination of Israel’s trade deficit with the United States, signaling a bold shift in economic policy.

Speaking at the White House, Netanyahu said, “We will eliminate the trade deficit with the United States… very quickly.”

He also committed to dismantling trade barriers, calling it “the right thing to do” for both nations.

This comes after Trump imposed a 17% tariff on Israeli goods, part of his sweeping trade overhaul targeting dozens of countries.

Israel, a key U.S. ally, ran a $7.4 billion goods deficit with America last year, per Census Bureau data.

Netanyahu’s pledge aims to appease Trump, who has tied tariff relief to reducing aid-dependent imbalances.

Before the tariffs hit, Israel scrapped all duties on U.S. imports, hoping to soften the blow to its economy.

Experts warn the tariffs could cost Israel up to $3 billion and thousands of jobs, especially in machinery and diamonds.

Netanyahu hopes Israel can model fair trade for others, though Trump remained noncommittal on lifting the levies.

The talks also covered Gaza, Iran, and hostages, but trade took center stage amid global market jitters.

With 70 countries now negotiating with Trump, Israel’s move could spark a wave of deficit-cutting deals.

Time will tell if Netanyahu’s gambit preserves Israel’s economic edge with its biggest partner.