Prime Minister Netanyahu set for Washington amidst rising concerns over potential escalation in regional conflict.

Benjamin Netanyahu is slated to fly into Washington on Monday, entering a period marked by political uncertainty in the US. His meeting with outgoing President Joe Biden and addressing Congress are set against concerns over potential escalation in the Middle East region.

Netanyahu's arrival coincides with Biden exiting his presidential campaign; this situation tests how effectively former leader can influence US policy towards Israel during these transitional days. The Israeli Prime Minister faces a delicate balance between maintaining support from the Republican party led by Donald Trump and appealing to Democrats, who are gearing up for elections with vice-president Kamala Harris as their candidate.

In an interview before landing at Ben Gurion Airport in Israel, Netanyahu explained his visit as necessary due to "Israel fighting on several fronts" amidst political uncertainty in the US. He aims to secure bipartisan backing crucial for Israel's future.

Netanyahu is expected to engage with both Biden and Harris during his trip. With pressure from Israeli military high command and public opinion demanding an end to hostilities, Netanyahu has been seen as potentially using this visit to garner support for ongoing or expanded conflict in Gaza – a situation that analysts have pointed out could change with Biden's withdrawal.

A European diplomat shared cautious expectations about reaching a ceasefire agreement during the trip, underscoring how deeply connected Netanyahu is to this conflict. Meanwhile, some hostages taken by Hamas militants in Gaza are anticipated to join Netanyahu on his US trip – an action that has sparked controversy amongst families of those still captive in Gaza.

Israel's public opinion largely blames Netanyahu for the failure to secure a deal with Hamas, while some Israeli protesters and even military chiefs are advocating negotiations over ceasefire instead of continuous fighting. The US is currently working towards mediating tensions between Israeli forces and Hezbollah in Lebanon alongside ongoing peace talks concerning Gaza.

Despite assurances from the Biden administration that a resolution is within reach, doubts persist about Netanyahu's commitment to such an agreement due to his political interests and alliances. The international court of justice recently ruled against Israel's occupation of West Bank and settlement construction.