President Donald Trump met with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu at the White House Monday after the United States imposed 17 percent tariffs on Israel. Netanyahu says his country will quickly eliminate the trade deficit and trade barriers with the United States. Trump also reiterated his desire for the United States to control Gaza. Meanwhile, in Israel, protesters gathered outside Netanyahu’s home, a year and a half after the Oct. 7 attacks, to protest the hostages still being held in Gaza.
Countries around the world are reacting to the new tariffs recently announced by Trump. The European Union is reportedly planning countermeasures, while Mexico is seeking to avoid them. Trump has doubled down on previous statements, asserting that European countries shouldn’t rely on the United States for military defense.
Trump has also vowed to impose an additional 50 percent tariff on Chinese imports, following a 34 percent retaliatory tariff imposed by the Chinese Communist Party on the United States last week. Trump says the new tariffs could take effect as soon as Wednesday, unless China lifts its retaliatory duties by Tuesday.