President Donald Trump is set to make a major push for his Gaza peace plan on Monday when he meets Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, touting a “special” deal he says has the backing of key Arab leaders. The White House summit is viewed as a make-or-break moment to end the protracted conflict, free hostages, and demilitarize Hamas.
Trump’s confidence was on full display in a Truth Social post where he declared, “All are on board for something special, first time ever.” This follows a week of diplomacy that reportedly produced a 21-point framework for peace. The plan addresses the core issues of the war that erupted in October 2023 after a deadly Hamas terror attack on southern Israel.
Despite Trump’s optimism, Netanyahu has signaled he is not ready to abandon his military campaign. The Israeli leader’s recent pledge at the UN to “finish the job” against Hamas underscores his government’s focus on a decisive military outcome. This position has led to public friction with the Trump administration, which has recently cautioned Israel on several policy fronts.
The human element of the crisis remains a powerful motivator for peace. Families of Israeli hostages have implored Trump to see the deal through, writing in an open letter that they are counting on him to stand firm against any “sabotage.” Their appeal highlights the immense pressure on the leaders to prioritize the lives of those still held captive.
The talks will also delve into the complex issue of Gaza’s future. The U.S. proposal includes the establishment of an international transitional authority to govern the territory, with reports suggesting former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair could play a leading role. This is a direct clash with Netanyahu’s vision, as he has vehemently rejected any future involvement of the Palestinian Authority in Gaza, expressing deep skepticism about its potential for reform.