Overview: Trump’s Assertion Amid Ongoing Strikes
In a recent interview with Axios, former President Donald Trump asserted that a Gaza peace deal is “very close,” even as Israeli forces maintain bombardment of the territory. The remarks come as a 20-point White House plan has been put on the table, with various parties signaling conditional openness to negotiations.
The White House Plan in Focus
Trump said the administration’s framework would push for an immediate ceasefire, a hostage exchange, and a staged withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza. The plan envisions Hamas disarmament and the creation of a transitional government overseen by international actors. According to Trump, the response from most countries was favorable, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reportedly supportive and Hamas showing progress toward acceptance on several points.
Key Elements and Stated Timelines
The proposal centers on:
– An immediate ceasefire to halt ongoing hostilities,
– A hostage release by Hamas in exchange for Palestinian prisoners held in Israeli jails,
– A staged Israeli withdrawal from Gaza with an emphasis on security and stability,
– A disarmament process for Hamas, and
– A transitional government under international supervision aimed at facilitating lasting governance.
Regional Dynamics and Endorsements
Trump credited Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan with exerting pressure on Hamas to release hostages, calling Erdoğan “very helpful” and a trusted ally. The former president stressed that broad international support is crucial if a deal is to be sustained, noting that Netanyahu could accept the plan only if it aligned with Israel’s security interests and political realities.
Impact on Israel’s Global Image
Trump acknowledged that Israel’s military campaign in Gaza has damaged its global standing, with casualties reaching tens of thousands according to some estimates. He expressed a belief that a successful deal could help restore Israel’s credibility on the world stage, suggesting that broad international backing would follow a negotiated settlement and a responsible path forward for governance in Gaza.
What Comes Next: Negotiation and Diplomacy
As parties weigh concessions, Trump described a window of opportunity to finalize the arrangement in the coming days. He said “Bibi” (Netanyahu) supports the deal, while Hamas has signaled willingness to negotiate parts of the plan but seeks broader concessions on several issues. The White House’s approach emphasizes practical steps that could de-escalate hostilities while laying the groundwork for stability in the region.
Humanitarian and Security Considerations
Analysts note that any durable resolution must address urgent humanitarian needs in Gaza and accommodate legitimate security concerns for Israel. The proposed international-led transitional government is intended to manage governance and reconstruction, while mechanisms for accountability and disarmament would be critical to prevent a relapse into broader conflict.
Conclusion: A Delicate Moment for Middle East Peace Prospects
With a potential ceasefire and hostage exchange on the table, the coming days could prove pivotal for Gaza and the wider region. Trump’s comments underscore a hopeful—yet uncertain—moment in which diplomatic diplomacy competes with ground reality on the battlefield. Observers will be watching closely to see if the plan gains unanimous backing and whether implementation can withstand political and security pressures on all sides.
