Trump, Netanyahu unveil plan to end Gaza conflict

Frustrated by the ongoing violence, Trump appears to be betting that Hamas is now too weakened to resist. Netanyahu, standing beside Trump at the White House, warned that if Hamas refuses the deal or acts in bad faith, Israel will take unilateral action to finish the conflict.

The proposal, currently under review by Hamas through mediators from Qatar and Egypt, has received support from the Palestinian Authority in the West Bank and several key regional powers, including Egypt, Jordan, Turkey, Qatar, and the UAE. However, major sticking points remain — particularly the lack of a clear path to Palestinian statehood and a requirement for Hamas to disarm.

Under the plan, a temporary governing body — chaired by Trump and including former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair — would oversee Gaza's transition. Civilian governance would be managed by Palestinian technocrats, with power eventually shifting to a reformed Palestinian Authority.

Unlike earlier proposals, this one doesn’t call for the displacement of Gaza residents. It does, however, demand that Hamas release all remaining hostages within 72 hours of accepting the deal. In return, Israel would release hundreds of Palestinian prisoners, including many serving life sentences.

Trump believes peace is within reach, stating, “We’re not quite finished. We have to get Hamas.” While Hamas has previously expressed willingness to relinquish control of Gaza, it has refused to disarm — a key Israeli demand.

Trump reassured Netanyahu of U.S. support should Hamas reject the plan, adding, “This is a different Hamas. Their leadership has been killed three times over.”

Netanyahu Apologizes to Qatar for Strike

As part of his visit, Netanyahu also reached out to Qatar to apologize for a September 9 Israeli airstrike that accidentally killed a Qatari soldier during a strike on Hamas leaders in Doha. The incident drew rare U.S. criticism of Israel and strained relations with Qatar, a key regional mediator.

In a phone call facilitated by Trump, Netanyahu expressed regret and pledged that Israel would not carry out similar attacks in Qatar again. The Qatari prime minister welcomed the apology and reiterated his country’s commitment to regional stability.

Despite the apology, Israel’s far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir defended the strike, calling it “important, just and ethical.”

Delicate Timing for Netanyahu

The talks come as Netanyahu’s coalition faces increasing internal strain and as Israel finds itself diplomatically isolated. The Trump proposal offers Hamas amnesty if its members disarm and agree to peaceful coexistence. Those who wish to leave Gaza would be guaranteed safe passage.

Trump’s growing impatience with the conflict has also shown in recent actions — from his support during Israel’s brief war with Iran to criticism of Israeli policy, including a vow to block any annexation of the West Bank.

Currently, Hamas is believed to be holding 48 hostages, with about 20 still alive. The group has demanded Israel withdraw from Gaza in exchange for their release. Trump, who discussed the proposal with Arab leaders during the U.N. General Assembly, believes the plan could mark a turning point for peace in the region, reports UNB. 

“I challenge the Palestinians to take responsibility for their destiny,” Trump said, emphasizing that the deal provides them with that very opportunity.