Trump to Push New Peace Plan in Talks with Netanyahu
US President Donald Trump is set to unveil a new peace plan aimed at ending the Israel-Gaza conflict during White House talks with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday. The plan, which has been leaked to US and Israeli media, outlines a framework for a ceasefire and a transitional government in Gaza.
According to sources, the plan stipulates the release of all hostages within 48 hours of the deal being confirmed. Once they are returned, Israel will free hundreds of Palestinian prisoners serving life sentences. Hamas members who commit to peace will be offered amnesty and safe passage out of Gaza - and the group will have no future role in the territory.
Netanyahu said on Sunday that "it's not been finalised yet," while Hamas stated that they had not formally been sent the proposal. Trump, however, expressed optimism about reaching an agreement, telling journalists on Friday: "I think we have a deal."
The plan appears to constitute a significant shift in US policy towards the conflict, which has seen repeated cycles of violence and failed peace negotiations. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) will gradually withdraw from the Strip, and Gaza will be governed by an interim transitional government.
Background on the conflict is essential to understanding the significance of the proposed plan. Tensions between Israel and Hamas have been escalating for years, with periodic outbreaks of violence resulting in significant loss of life and destruction. The US has long been involved in efforts to broker a peace deal, but previous attempts have failed to yield lasting results.
In addition to the leaked details of the plan, other perspectives on its potential impact are emerging. Palestinian officials have expressed skepticism about the proposal, citing concerns that it does not address key issues such as Israeli settlements and border control. Hamas leaders have also rejected the plan, stating that they will not abandon their struggle for Palestinian rights.
The current status of the talks is uncertain, with both sides maintaining a cautious tone ahead of Monday's meeting. Trump's administration has indicated that the plan is still in development, while Netanyahu's office has emphasized that any agreement must be acceptable to all parties involved.
As the US and Israel engage in high-stakes negotiations, the international community watches closely for signs of progress towards a lasting peace. The outcome of these talks will have far-reaching implications for regional stability and the prospects for a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
*Reporting by Bbc.*
