Washington, DC [US], February 5: In his oath-taking ceremony during his second term, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu praised President Donald Trump as the “greatest friend Israel has ever had in the White House” and thanked him for asking him to be the first foreign leader to visit the US.

“I’m honored that you (US President Donald Trump) invited me to be the first foreign leader to visit the White House in your second term,” Netanyahu said at the joint news conference with Trump on Tuesday (local time). Your friendship and support for the Jewish state and its citizens are shown by this.

“I’ve said this before and I’ll say it again, you are the greatest friend Israel has ever had in the White House,” he said, praising Trump’s friendship and support for Israel. And for that reason, you are so highly respected by the Israelites.”

He said, “Israel has never been stronger, and Iran’s terror axis has never been weaker,” in reference to the security situation in Israel at the moment. He did, however, stress the need of “finishing the job” in order to ensure Israel’s future and promote regional peace.

Netanyahu listed three main objectives for Israel in relation to Gaza: eliminating Hamas’ military, obtaining the release of all Israeli captives, and making sure Gaza no longer threatens Israel.

“Iran’s terror axis has never been weaker, and Israel has never been more powerful. However, as we mentioned, we must complete the task if we are to ensure our future and restore peace to our region. Israel’s three objectives in Gaza are to eliminate Hamas’s governance and military capabilities, secure the release of all our captives, and make sure Gaza never threatens Israel again,” he said.

Notably, Netanyahu traveled to the United States on Sunday to meet with Trump on plans for the Middle East and the ceasefire deal in Gaza, according to Al Jazeera.

Israeli flags were flying around the city as Netanyahu touched down at the Andrews Air Force Base in Maryland.

According to Al Jazeera, the Israeli prime minister is also anticipated to meet with US congressional representatives and military personnel. These sessions will take place across a number of days.