Trump Aims to Seal Gaza Deal With Netanyahu at White House
WASHINGTON — In a Sunday interview with Reuters, former President Donald Trump said the negotiations to end the Gaza war had entered the final stage and that he hoped to clinch an agreement during Monday’s White House meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. He added that feedback from Israeli and Arab leaders about the peace plan proposals had been very positive, signaling a potential convergence around a shared framework for Gaza’s future.
What a potential deal would mean for Gaza and regional diplomacy
Trump framed the talks as a path to humanitarian relief and lasting security, suggesting a negotiated settlement could alleviate Gaza’s humanitarian crisis while addressing Israeli security concerns. Analysts cautioned that any accord would need to balance the needs of a Gaza population facing shortages with effective guarantees that reduce the risk of renewed violence. A credible peace plan would likely include elements such as humanitarian corridors, reconstruction funding, and mechanisms to monitor and enforce any ceasefire.
What Trump said and why it matters
In his Reuters interview, Trump described the peace plan proposals as receiving “very positive” signals from senior Israeli and Arab leaders—an unusual level of regional alignment, given decades of suspicion and competing interests. He stressed urgency, noting that a White House meeting presents an opportunity to translate optimism into formal terms and a concrete timeline. The remarks underscore his belief that personal diplomacy at the highest level can accelerate progress on a volatile issue.
Next steps and potential hurdles
Observers say that even with positive feedback, a final agreement would require hard compromises and multi-national approvals, including domestic political considerations in both Israel and allied capitals. A likely path could involve a staged approach: a ceasefire and humanitarian access upfront, followed by steps toward governance, reconstruction, and longer-term security arrangements. Opponents may press for stronger guarantees on Palestinian governance and regional accountability, which could complicate a quick consensus.
Implications for U.S. diplomacy
A breakthrough would represent a significant showcase for U.S. influence in the Middle East and its ability to coordinate with regional partners on a volatile issue. Washington would seek to maintain unity among Gulf states and other stakeholders while managing domestic expectations and ensuring that any plan aligns with a durable, long-term strategy for Israeli security and Palestinian dignity.
What happens next
If a deal can be announced in Washington, it would mark a notable milestone in a conflict that has endured for years. The coming days will reveal whether the momentum described by Trump translates into a formal framework, binding commitments, and a timeline that all sides can accept. Watch for official statements from the White House and Netanyahu’s office, as well as any new proposals on humanitarian aid and reconstruction funding.
