Trump's Gaza Peace Plan Puts Pressure on Netanyahu
In a surprising development, US President Donald Trump has presented a ceasefire plan for Gaza, forcing Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu into a challenging position. The proposal, which aims to end the ongoing conflict in the region, has been conditionally agreed upon by Hamas. However, Netanyahu seemed shocked by Trump's stance on Hamas and reacted with skepticism, leading to a tense exchange between the two leaders.
Trump's Peace Plan: Deal First, Details Later
The American president has been pushing for a ceasefire in Gaza, calling for an immediate halt to Israel's bombardment of the enclave after Hamas' response to his peace plan. Trump's strategy seems to be to secure a deal first and work out the details later. The ceasefire, according to Trump, will begin immediately
after Hamas agrees to the US plan to end the war.
The peace plan, unveiled by the White House, is a comprehensive 20-point proposal aimed at halting Israel's offensive in Gaza. The proposal calls for an immediate ceasefire, the release of all Israeli soldier prisoners within 72 hours, and the release of Palestinian detainees. A temporary international body, dubbed the Board of Peace,
led by Trump, would govern Gaza. The plan also envisions Gaza as a deradicalized, terror-free zone
and promises extensive reconstruction of the region.
Netanyahu's Dilemma
Despite Trump's optimism, Netanyahu views the situation differently. While the Israeli leader was initially anticipating a plan from Trump that would have represented a total victory over Hamas, he was caught off guard by the US president's announcement. Netanyahu quickly held consultations after Hamas issued its statement, stressing the need for close coordination with Washington and insisting that Hamas' response should be treated as a rejection of Trump's proposal. The prime minister is facing a backlash from the far-right in his country, with critics arguing against the halt in attacks on Gaza.
Trump's Ultimatum to Hamas
Setting a Sunday deadline for Hamas to agree to the peace plan, Trump issued a stern warning: accept the deal or face all hell.
He indicated that Israel would have the green light to finish the job
if Hamas refused to agree to the ceasefire deal. However, a senior member of the Palestinian group stated that they were still considering the proposal but rejected the notion of a 'take it or leave it' deal.
Conclusion
The situation remains fluid, with Israeli negotiators in Egypt set to begin talks, and Netanyahu expressing hope for the release of captives held in Gaza. Trump's peace plan, although welcomed by leaders from Arab, Muslim nations, and Europe, has nonetheless put Netanyahu in a difficult spot. As the Israeli prime minister grapples with this unexpected turn of events, the world awaits the final decision of Hamas and the potential implications for peace in the Middle East.