Trump and Netanyahu Meet to Discuss Gaza Peace Plan Amid Hostage Crisis
President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu are scheduled to meet at the White House on Monday to discuss a proposed peace plan for Gaza. The meeting comes amidst escalating conflict and growing concerns over the fate of hostages held in the Palestinian enclave, as well as increasing international pressure on Israel. Trump expressed optimism about finalizing a deal, despite Hamas reporting loss of contact with two hostages.
Trump's Optimism and the Proposed Peace Plan
President Trump has voiced confidence in achieving a breakthrough. "We’re doing very well. It looks like there is a really good chance for peace in the Middle East," Trump said. He told Reuters he received a "very good response" from Israeli and Arab leaders to the Gaza peace plan proposal, stating that "everybody wants to make a deal." The proposed 21-point plan includes the release of all hostages, a phased withdrawal of Israeli troops, and a new governance structure for Gaza.
The plan stipulates that Hamas would disarm and have no role in governing Gaza. A two-tiered governance system would be established, involving an international body and a Palestinian committee. There would also be no forced displacement of Palestinians. This plan was reportedly presented to Arab nations on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly. However, Hamas has denied receiving any new proposal.
“We have a real chance for GREATNESS IN THE MIDDLE EAST. ALL ARE ON BOARD FOR SOMETHING SPECIAL, FIRST TIME EVER. WE WILL GET IT DONE," Trump said in a post on Truth Social.
Escalating Conflict and the Hostage Situation
The meeting is taking place as Israeli forces intensify their offensive in Gaza City. Hamas’ military wing, the Qassam Brigades, announced it had lost contact with two hostages due to Israeli operations. They urged Israel to halt air strikes and pull back troops to allow fighters to retrieve the captives. At least 48 hostages are believed to remain in Gaza, with approximately 20 believed to be alive.
Netanyahu’s government faces mounting global isolation and pressure from Trump, who warned against annexing the West Bank. The Israeli offensive has led to increasing civilian casualties and a humanitarian crisis. The Al-Qassam Brigades has stated it will only release remaining hostages in exchange for a lasting ceasefire and Israeli withdrawal.
Key Details of the Reported Peace Plan
- Hostages Released: Hamas would release all living and dead hostages within 48 hours of the agreement.
- Military Operations: Israeli military operations will cease and troops will gradually withdraw from Gaza.
- Prisoner Release: Israel would agree to free Palestinian prisoners.
- Humanitarian Aid: Significantly more aid would enter Gaza.
- Governance: Hamas would disarm and have no role in governing Gaza; a transitional administration would be established.
- Deradicalization: A plan to deradicalize schools and mosques would be set up.
Reactions and Implications
Reactions to the proposed plan are mixed. Far-right members of Netanyahu’s government oppose any deal that doesn't eradicate Hamas, while Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid has offered Netanyahu a "safety net" for a hostage deal. The missing hostages increase the urgency of diplomacy, but also risk hardening Israel's stance. The success of Trump’s mediation will depend on Israel’s willingness to compromise, and Hamas’ willingness to engage.
| Key Players | Positions |
|---|---|
| Donald Trump | Optimistic about a peace deal; presented a 21-point plan. |
| Benjamin Netanyahu | Facing pressure domestically and internationally to end the war, while also dealing with a far-right coalition government. |
| Hamas | Demanding a permanent ceasefire and Israeli withdrawal in exchange for hostages. |
