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TEL AVIV, Israel (AP) — As U.S. President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu prepare to meet on Monday, a sense of cautious optimism regarding their recent joint strikes against Iran might be tempered by the increasingly urgent and complex situation unfolding in Gaza. While both leaders may be inclined to celebrate a perceived victory over Iran, the shadow of the ongoing conflict in Gaza threatens to dominate the discussions and complicate the already delicate relationship.

The strikes on Iran, widely praised by both administrations, were perceived as a demonstration of strength and a deterrent against further Iranian aggression in the region. Trump has consistently adopted a hardline stance toward Iran, withdrawing the U.S. from the Iran nuclear deal and imposing crippling sanctions. Netanyahu, similarly, has long viewed Iran as a primary threat to Israel's security, advocating for a robust response to its actions.

However, the situation in Gaza presents a starkly different challenge. Weeks of escalating tensions, rocket fire from Gaza into Israel, and retaliatory airstrikes have resulted in significant casualties on both sides. International pressure is mounting for a ceasefire and a long-term solution to the underlying issues driving the conflict. The humanitarian situation in Gaza is deteriorating, raising concerns about a potential humanitarian crisis.

The meeting between Trump and Netanyahu arrives at a critical juncture. While shared concerns about Iran provide a foundation for cooperation, the Gaza war introduces a significant point of divergence. The U.S. administration has traditionally urged restraint and de-escalation in the region, but Trump's support for Israel has been unwavering. Netanyahu, facing domestic pressure and a challenging political landscape, will likely seek continued U.S. backing for his policies in Gaza.

Analysts suggest that the meeting will likely focus on several key areas: maintaining pressure on Iran, coordinating efforts to contain Hezbollah, and navigating the complexities of the Gaza conflict. A potential point of contention could be the long-term strategy for resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. While Trump's administration has taken a decidedly pro-Israel stance, recognizing Jerusalem as Israel's capital and moving the U.S. embassy there, the international community remains largely critical of Israeli settlement expansion and the ongoing occupation of Palestinian territories.

Ultimately, the meeting between Trump and Netanyahu will be a test of their ability to balance shared strategic interests with the realities of a volatile and deeply divided region. The shadow of Gaza looms large, and the outcome of their discussions could have profound implications for the future of the Middle East.

The question remains whether the two leaders can find common ground on the path forward in Gaza, or whether the conflict will continue to overshadow their efforts to counter Iran's influence.