Trump and Netanyahu Discuss U.S.-Backed Gaza Peace Proposal

U.S. President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu convened at the White House to deliberate on a U.S.-sponsored peace proposal intended to conclude the protracted conflict in Gaza. The plan, unveiled by the White House, encompasses a ceasefire, hostage-for-prisoner exchanges, phased Israeli withdrawal, Hamas disarmament, and the establishment of a transitional government overseen by an international body.

During the meeting, Trump expressed confidence in the plan's potential, stating, "We are hopeful that by the end of this week, we'll have an agreement that will bring us into a 60-day ceasefire." Netanyahu acknowledged the complexities involved but emphasized the necessity of addressing the situation in Gaza.

The proposed plan introduces a transitional technocratic Palestinian governance supervised by an international body led by Trump. It promises large-scale international aid, infrastructural rehabilitation, and economic redevelopment, including a special economic zone. Hamas members willing to disarm and commit to peace would receive amnesty and safe passage if they choose to leave.

However, the plan's feasibility remains uncertain, as Hamas has not been involved in the negotiations. Past ceasefire initiatives have faltered due to disagreements between Israel and Hamas. Netanyahu has pledged to maintain military pressure until Hamas is dismantled.

In a related development, former British Prime Minister Tony Blair is reportedly being considered to lead a transitional authority in Gaza once a ceasefire is achieved. Blair has been working through his institute on development plans for Gaza, including a project dubbed the "Gaza riviera," with support from Israeli businesspeople and consulting firms.

The meeting between Trump and Netanyahu underscores the ongoing efforts to find a resolution to the Gaza conflict, though significant challenges persist in achieving a lasting peace.