Trump ‘trying to be dominant’ with Netanyahu as body language expert reveals subtle tell | World | News
A body language expert has suggested that Donald Trump’s body language when welcoming Benjamin Netanyahu to the White House this afternoon was less warm and more sombre than the last time he met the Israeli prime minister. The two leaders are meeting to discuss the prospect of a peace deal in Gaza. Judi James said: “During his greeting ritual for Netanyahu was emphatically serious and somber with a focus on being dominant. As he waited in the entrance, he threw a signature raised fist at the journalists in an aside that suggested he is on top of things.
“His adopted facial expression after that was one of narrowed eyes and lips that fell open before pinching together in a look that suggested a shrewd, serious approach. As the car drew up, he even took in a breath in a sigh that suggested he was bracing himself. There was a quick head-cock greeting but none of the warm beaming smiles of the last visit. Trump’s brows held in a frown of concern and his behavior during the handshake suggested a desire to get into a deep communication as soon as possible.”
She added: “The handshake lasted around ten seconds, and Trump engaged in some intense-looking chat throughout it.
“Netanyahu turned out first, smiling in the face of Trump’s more intense look.
“Trump’s performed signal to the press here was a thumbs up but with some horizontal movement. Netanyahu mirrored the gesture to give the impression of a meeting of minds and purpose.
“There was a moment when Netanyahu looked keen to turn away and go into the White House, but Trump seemed to very subtly exert control with a hand on his back to keep him in front of the cameras.
“Trump’s expression by now involved a lip clamp that was pulled down at the corners to again suggest seriousness.”
However, another expert, Inbaal Honigman, speaking exclusively with Casino.org US, shared a different take.
She said: “As the two men initially come face to face, Trump leans towards Netanyahu.
“This may simply be the gesture of a good host, but could also indicate that Trump is interested in Netanyahu’s cooperation.
“This may be a submissive gesture on Trump’s part.
“Their long and warm handshake is accompanied by a matching head tilt by the two leaders.
“The head tilt signifies listening, so they’re both willing to listen to one another.
“The fact that their moves mirror one another is another positive sign, meaning that they’d like to agree, not argue.”
She added: “The handshake shows the struggle for power between the two men.
“The American reaches his hand out first, showing that he’s willing to accommodate the Israeli.
“Their handshake is slow and personal, like two close friends.
“Netanyahu places his hand on Trump’s wrist, in a reassuring manner, as if letting the President know that he’s got nothing up his sleeve.
“There will be no new information discussed today.
“We can see that Trump’s hand is on top of the Israeli PM’s, but Netanyahu places his thumb atop Trump’s hand, so both leaders want to have the upper hand.”
Ms Honigman then suggested that Trump’s brow was lowered, meaning he is “perhaps worried”.
Netanyahu’s expression, however, is “bright” and “cautiously optimistic”.
The expert added: “As they step into the White House, the Israeli goes first, and the American places his protective hand over his back, showing that he won’t let any harm come to Netanyahu. “
