Trump Seems to Pressure Netanyahu for Gaza Agreement

The Gaza Conflict May Conclude Soon Owing to Presidential Influence

There’s a possibility that the ongoing conflict in Gaza could reach a resolution this week, driven by the efforts of President Donald Trump.

It seems the president has adeptly maneuvered the diplomatic elements in play, compelling Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to consider agreements that don’t fully align with Israeli objectives. However, this approach might secure strategic concessions for Israel in other vital areas.

Last week, Trump convened with Arab leaders at the United Nations, gaining backing for a regional plan that would involve replacing Hamas with an Arab governing body in the ongoing Gaza situation. This deal hinges on a commitment that would halt Israel’s annexation ambitions in Judea and Samaria (the West Bank).

At the same time, there might be room for Israel to claim certain territories deemed essential for its security, but overall control of Gaza would not be fully annexed.

The Israeli forces are advancing steadily into Gaza with relatively few casualties, indicating they might be inclined to finalize such a deal if all 48 remaining hostages are released.

While members of Netanyahu’s right-wing coalition may be discontent with the idea of relinquishing their chance to gain control over Gaza and annex larger portions of the West Bank, they are aware that this may be their only option.

Trump’s influence over Netanyahu is apparent, especially regarding new agreements. Israeli officials seem to struggle against the narratives being pushed by both left and right-wing critics, including recent comments from Tucker Carlson, yet they defend Trump on issues where their perspectives diverge.

Such conflicts are infrequent, largely due to the resolute stance of Israel’s adversaries, who are finding it challenging to negotiate under Netanyahu’s refusal of Trump’s diplomatic overtures.

Early attempts to facilitate Trump’s deal were obstructed by Hamas, which led Trump to grant Netanyahu and the Israeli Defense Forces more extensive leeway in Gaza. Hamas only began seeking diplomatic resolutions when its last stronghold in Gaza City was at risk.

Trump then engaged Arab leaders in a manner that has become complicated by Qatar’s support of Hamas, leading to Israeli military actions last month.

It’s generally easier for Israel to reject Hamas’s proposed terms facilitated by various Arab mediators than to dismiss proposals backed by the broader Arab community. Only Trump has the ability to unite such a coalition that could place pressure on Israel to comply.