Netanyahu Optimistic After Trump’s Peace Proposal

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu appeared hopeful following President Donald Trump’s announcement regarding new efforts to resolve the conflict in Gaza.

During a press conference at the White House on Monday, Netanyahu endorsed Trump’s latest peace proposal, which outlines 20 points. These include condemning actions in Gaza, ensuring the return of Israeli hostages without preconditions, and forming a “Peace Commission” led by Trump to oversee the reconstruction of Gaza. The proposal garnered applause from various attendees, including cabinet members and Israeli journalists.

Netanyahu indicated that Hamas is now reviewing the terms of this agreement, which, if accepted, could cease the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

“This represents the closest we’ve ever been to genuine peace,” Trump remarked at the press event. “It’s not a superficial peace, nor a politically motivated one.”

Trump stated that Hamas “is also interested in this outcome,” although he hasn’t openly declared his position. Netanyahu warned that if Hamas rejects the agreement, Israel would proceed independently.

“This can be resolved easily or through more strenuous means,” Netanyahu noted, adding, “We prefer a straightforward approach, but we’ll take necessary actions.” Trump expressed his full support for Israel should Hamas decline to engage in negotiations.

Before the press conference, both leaders reached out to Qatar’s Prime Minister, Mohamed bin Abdul Rahman bin Jasim al-Thani, aiming to restore relations between Israel and Qatar. Netanyahu conveyed his regret for previous incidents involving Qatari soldiers, acknowledging Israel’s strikes aimed at Hamas leadership back in early September.

During the press conference, Trump opted not to entertain questions from reporters, citing ongoing negotiations, and he also offered Netanyahu the chance to address inquiries from the Israeli press, which was declined. Netanyahu’s popularity has witnessed a downturn in both Israel and the United States as the conflict nears its two-year mark.

As the press conference concluded, journalists clamored with questions, but both leaders swiftly exited the room.