US President Donald Trump will push a new peace plan to end the Israel-Gaza war during White House talks with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday.
Trump has talked up prospects of reaching an agreement, telling journalists on Friday: I think we have a deal. However, Netanyahu remarked on Sunday that it's not been finalised yet, and Hamas claimed they have not yet received any formal proposal.
The leaked details of the plan, published by US and Israeli media, suggest it stipulates that all hostages must be released within 48 hours of agreement confirmation. Following hostage returns, Israel would free hundreds of Palestinian prisoners serving life sentences.
For Hamas members who agree to peace, the proposal includes options for amnesty and safe passage out of Gaza, while also outlining the destruction of all military structures associated with the group. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) would gradually withdraw from the Strip, transitioning governance to an interim transitional government.
This shift represents a notable change from the Trump administration's previous stance, which proposed relocating Gaza's population and creating a US-owned development area.
The new plan encourages Palestinians to stay in Gaza and acknowledges their aspirations for statehood, proposing a subsequent role for the Palestinian Authority (PA) once it undergoes reforms. These elements are seen as potential negotiation challenges for Netanyahu, who has longstanding opposition to a Palestinian state and criticized the PA's credibility.
Even if Netanyahu finds Trump's vision palatable, hardline elements within his coalition may oppose any mention of a Palestinian state or a role for the PA. Opposition leader Yair Lapid has voiced his support for negotiations and a potential hostage deal, indicating some parliamentary backing for Netanyahu.
Public sentiment in Israel is pressing Netanyahu to conclude the conflict, particularly as families of the approximately 48 hostages are urging action. Trump's frustration with Netanyahu has increased amid Israeli military actions impacting US allies and proposals for annexation of the West Bank.
In previous meetings, Trump has stressed the importance of collaboration with Middle Eastern leaders, promoting his upcoming discussions as crucial for regional stability. He expressed a combination of hope and urgency for resolving the ongoing conflict, stating that there is an unprecedented opportunity for progress in the region.
The Israeli military's recent operations in Gaza, initiated following the October 2023 attacks by Hamas, have resulted in significant casualties on both sides. Reports from Gaza indicate a staggering death toll under the ongoing hostilities, further complicating the landscape for any diplomatic resolutions.
