On a momentous Monday, President Donald Trump successfully obtained Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s approval for a U.S.-backed peace initiative, designed to bring an end to the almost two-year war raging in Gaza. Yet, the specter of Hamas’s acceptance of this plan cast a shadow of doubt.
At a joint press conference held at the White House following discussions with Netanyahu, Trump articulated that they were “beyond very close” to reaching a much-desired peace accord for the Palestinian region. He asserted a stark warning to the Islamist organization Hamas: should they reject the offer, Israel would be granted comprehensive U.S. support to take decisive action as needed.
The White House has unveiled a comprehensive 20-point document, passionately calling for an immediate ceasefire. The document advocates for a poignant exchange, trading hostages held by Hamas for Palestinian prisoners in Israel. It envisions a gradual withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, the disarmament of Hamas, and the establishment of a transitional government, guided by an international body.
As Trump stepped into Monday’s pivotal meeting, his aim was to alleviate Netanyahu’s concerns about certain aspects of the proposed plan. However, clarity remains elusive regarding whether the Trump administration and Israel have reconciled all their differences. Key issues remain unresolved, such as the potential establishment of a future Palestinian State, starkly opposed by Netanyahu, and any involvement of the Palestinian Authority in the enclave’s post-conflict governance.
Trump thanked Netanyahu for agreeing to the plan, expressing trust that by working together, they can end the long history of death and destruction.
NETANYAHU SAYS PLAN MEETS ISRAEL’S WAR AIMS
Next to Trump, Netanyahu said: “I support your plan to end the war in Gaza, meeting our war goals.
It will return all our hostages to Israel, dismantle Hamas’ military strength, end its political control, and ensure Gaza is never a threat again,” he stated.
Despite this, Hamas remains crucial to the success of Trump’s peace plan.
The group’s absence from talks and their past refusals to disarm cast doubt on the plan’s feasibility.
Hamas, responsible for the October 7, 2023 attack, still has 48 hostages, 20 of whom are alive, according to Israel.
“Hamas hasn’t officially received the plan, only through media,” a Hamas official told Reuters.