In a significant development concerning the ongoing conflict in Gaza, US President Donald Trump has hinted at an imminent announcement, stating “something special” is on the horizon. This comes as Israeli officials reveal that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu holds reservations regarding the White House’s proposed 21-point ceasefire and post-war governance plan. The two leaders are set to engage in crucial discussions on Monday, with Trump expressing confidence that these talks could potentially bring an end to the conflict in Gaza.
On Sunday, Trump shared his optimism via social media, stating, “We have a real chance for GREATNESS IN THE MIDDLE EAST. ALL ARE ON BOARD FOR SOMETHING SPECIAL, FIRST TIME EVER. WE WILL GET IT DONE!!! President DJT.” However, during an interview with Fox News on the same day, Netanyahu refrained from confirming his acceptance of the plan, mentioning, “We’re working on it. It’s not been finalized yet.”
In a related development, Hamas announced that it had not received any new ceasefire proposals. The group reiterated its “readiness to examine any proposals it receives from its mediator brothers in a positive and responsible manner, while upholding the national rights of our people.” This statement highlights the ongoing complexities of the negotiations, as Netanyahu prepares to present his concerns and advocate for alterations to the ceasefire plan, according to three Israeli officials.
Despite prior coordination on the 21-point plan with Netanyahu, there remain contentious elements that could impede a final agreement. One Israeli official noted that the White House is aware of Israel's opposition to specific aspects, such as the involvement of the Palestinian Authority and the mention of aspirations for a future Palestinian state. “Netanyahu will not accept all of the outline as it has been initially published,” said one official, indicating the challenges ahead.
Netanyahu's engagement with Trump's envoy, Steve Witkoff, and son-in-law Jared Kushner on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York City last Thursday underscores the urgency of the discussions. Trump had previously presented the ceasefire and post-war proposal to Arab nations at the UN on Tuesday. A senior Israeli official remarked, “The dynamics appear more serious this time, but it still needs to cross the final line.”
The last round of negotiations collapsed in late July when the US unexpectedly withdrew, with both countries attributing the breakdown to Hamas’s failure to negotiate in good faith. Since then, key mediators like Egypt and Qatar have attempted to revive talks, albeit without success. An Israeli strike targeting senior Hamas leaders in Doha further complicated the situation, as it occurred shortly after the US presented a new ceasefire proposal.
In his recent television interview, Netanyahu did not express regret for the strike, stating, “Our goal was Hamas. Not anything beyond it. I think we can work out an understanding on this.” However, he faces mounting pressure from his far-right political allies, Itamar Ben Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich, who have made it clear they would oppose any plan that involves the West Bank-based Palestinian Authority. Ben Gvir emphasized on social media, “Mr. Prime Minister, you do not have a mandate to end the war without a complete defeat of Hamas.”
As the meeting between Trump and Netanyahu approaches, families of hostages currently held by Hamas gathered for a rally in New York’s Central Park, calling for an end to the war. Dani Miran, father of hostage Omri Miran, expressed, “We do not lose hope. We keep fighting to bring Omri and all the remaining hostages home.” Frustration is growing among hostage families, who accuse Netanyahu of prolonging the conflict for political gain, particularly after the decision to target Gaza City, where many hostages are believed to be located.
Ilana Gritzweski, a freed hostage and partner of captive Matan Zangauker, voiced her concerns, stating, “Netanyahu chose to bomb Matan and the other hostages. He chose death over life. President Trump, you have the power to end the war and bring all the hostages home.”
This situation remains fluid and complex, with diplomatic efforts continuing to evolve as key stakeholders navigate the path toward a potential resolution in Gaza.
