Netanyahu avoids attending peace council

According to Israeli sources, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu plans to avoid attending the World Council meeting organized by U.S. President Donald Trump. Instead of the council meeting, which is scheduled for February 19 in Washington, he reportedly prefers a personal meeting at the White House on February 18, to be held in a bilateral format. Sources indicate that Netanyahu agreed to Israel's entry into this council in response to strong pressure from Washington, but now, reportedly, he seeks to downplay his presence at the joint meeting.

Context

The World Council is a Trump initiative created to discuss global security issues. Israel joined it following pressure from the United States.