Critical Summit in Washington: Netanyahu and Trump Discuss Gaza's Future

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is scheduled to meet with US President Donald Trump in Washington for crucial talks, with the Gaza issue expected to be a central focus. This visit comes amid intensified US efforts to launch a new peace plan aimed at ending the nearly two-year-long conflict in Gaza.

Fourth Meeting Under Trump: Can It Break the Stalemate?

This marks Netanyahu's fourth meeting with Trump since the latter's return to the White House in January, a record compared to other world leaders. However, caution prevails in Israeli circles, anticipating a difficult encounter due to deep disagreements on Gaza's future.

Details of the Proposed US Plan

Trump unveiled his plan during his participation in the UN meetings in New York last week. The plan includes a proposal for a permanent ceasefire, the release of all Israeli hostages held by Hamas, and the deployment of an international stabilization force in the besieged enclave. It also suggests establishing an international oversight body to supervise a Palestinian committee that would manage the region during a transition period.

Cautious Optimism in Washington... Hesitation in Tel Aviv

US Vice President J.D. Vance expressed cautious optimism about the plan's chances of success, noting that the current situation seems more positive than ever in recent months. However, he acknowledged that things could go off track at the last moment. For his part, Netanyahu affirmed that his government is working with Trump's team but stressed that the plan is not yet finalized.

Fundamental Disagreements Impede Progress

In his address to the UN, Netanyahu did not mention the US plan, insisting that Israel would complete its mission in Gaza by eliminating Hamas and would not allow the establishment of a Palestinian state. He also rejected any role for the Palestinian Authority in Gaza. Israeli officials emphasized that any actions taken must have prior Israeli approval.

Will Arab Pressure Succeed in Changing Trump's Stance?

Other Israeli officials indicated a state of "panic" and "chaos" within the Israeli delegation in the US, claiming that Arab governments had convinced Trump to support a plan that contradicts the Israeli position. However, observers warned that the US proposal is still under negotiation, and the leaked draft could undergo significant revisions after the Netanyahu-Trump meeting.

Hamas Denies Receiving New Proposals

For its part, Hamas denied receiving any new proposals from international mediators and affirmed that negotiations on a prisoner exchange had stopped after the Israeli attack on the movement's leadership in Doha in early September.

Internal Pressure on Netanyahu

Netanyahu faces increasing pressure from his extremist political allies not to end the offensive on Gaza before achieving "complete victory" over Hamas. Amid this complex situation, the fate of the new US peace plan remains contingent on the results of the Netanyahu-Trump meeting in Washington.

Economic Factors and Regional Stability

The stability of the region is inextricably linked to its economic development. Any lasting peace agreement must address the fundamental economic needs of the Gazan population, including access to resources, trade opportunities, and employment. Failure to do so could lead to renewed instability and conflict. The involvement of international organizations and investment in infrastructure are crucial components for creating a sustainable economic future in Gaza.

The Role of International Law

International law provides a framework for resolving conflicts and protecting human rights. Any peace plan must adhere to international legal norms, including the principles of proportionality, distinction, and precaution in the conduct of hostilities. Independent investigations into alleged violations of international law are essential for ensuring accountability and preventing future abuses.