Trump Meets Netanyahu Amid Gaza Conflict Efforts

On Monday, President Donald Trump welcomed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to the White House, focusing on U.S. initiatives to end the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

The primary goal of their meeting was to advance a U.S.-sponsored framework aimed at resolving the war, addressing the hostage situation, and discussing governance in Gaza post-conflict.

Before the meeting, Trump expressed optimism on Truth Social, stating: “We have a real chance for GREATNESS IN THE MIDDLE EAST. WE ARE ON BOARD FOR SOMETHING SPECIAL, FIRST TIME EVER. WE WILL GET IT DONE!!!”

In a Sunday interview with NBC News, Trump remarked that “everybody is on board” with the peace plan.

The official White House rapid response account released a comprehensive 20-point peace proposal, emphasizing demilitarization in Gaza, hostage releases, and an immediate ceasefire, all while laying groundwork for possible Palestinian statehood.

“This afternoon, after extensive consultation with our friends and partners throughout the region, I’m formally releasing our principles for peace,” Trump said. He appreciated the backing of many Arab and Muslim leaders, alongside allies in Europe, for contributing to this proposal.

During a joint press conference, Trump warned that should Hamas reject the proposal, the U.S. would fully support Israel in taking decisive actions against them. However, the framework allows for Hamas members to choose exile as an alternative.

“If accepted by Hamas, this proposal calls for the immediate release of all remaining hostages, but no later than 72 hours,” Trump added.

Reports suggest Trump presented his peace plan to several Arab nations at the recent United Nations General Assembly, where it was positively received. Yet, details on Hamas’s reaction to the plan remain unclear.

The framework also stipulates that the Palestinian population in Gaza would not face forced displacement, and an international authority would oversee a Palestinian committee in the interim.

Trump discussed the envisioned international body, dubbed the “Board of Peace,” which he will lead.

“To ensure the success of this effort, my plan calls for a new international oversight body,” he specified, noting that it would be headed by himself.

Netanyahu, addressing the press, indicated that should Hamas dismiss the peace initiative, “then Israel will finish the job by itself. This can be done the easy way or the hard way.” He emphasized Israel’s objective to secure lasting peace while retaining some military presence for the foreseeable future.

Netanyahu began the conference by commending Trump as “the greatest friend Israel has ever had in the White House.”

In contrast, Israel has faced criticism from many nations advocating for Palestinian statehood, leading to a walkout by numerous UN delegates during Netanyahu’s speech.

Additionally, Trump reiterated his stance against Israeli annexation of the West Bank, stating, “It’s not going to happen.”

High-ranking Israeli officials have expressed support for annexation, but Trump’s administration is firm on this issue.

“The president believes his plan to end the war is the best the parties can get. Both sides may not be fully satisfied, but he is determined,” Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt noted.

The two leaders are expected to hold further discussions with the press after their private meeting.

The Proposed Plan

Ceasefire & Security

• Immediate ceasefire between Israel and Hamas.
• Temporary suspension of military operations by both parties.
• Creation of a U.S.-led oversight board to ensure ceasefire adherence.
• Formation of an international security force to maintain order.
• Gradual Israeli withdrawal from Gaza under oversight.

Hostages & Prisoners

• Immediate release of all hostages within 48–72 hours.
• Identification of deceased hostages.
• Verification of hostages’ safety by an independent international team.
• Amnesty for low-level Hamas operatives who cooperate.
• Monitoring of compliance by international observers.

Governance & Administration

• Temporary governing board led by President Trump and former Prime Minister Tony Blair.
• Civil administration transitioning to a reformed Palestinian Authority.
• Hamas excluded from political governance unless fully demilitarized.
• International advisors to assist in rebuilding infrastructure.
• Rule of law enforced by international security personnel.

Demilitarization & Long-Term Security

• Complete disarmament of Hamas and associated armed groups.
• Destruction of tunnels used for attacks into Israel.
• Ongoing intelligence-sharing among Israel, the U.S., and the Palestinian Authority.
• Strict enforcement of an arms embargo in Gaza.
• Permanent security checkpoints established until stability is reached.

Peace & Diplomacy

• Commitment to work toward achieving “eternal peace in the Middle East,” addressing economic aid, reconstruction, and normalization with neighbors.