Trump's Deal Could Be a Win for Netanyahu, Whether or Not It Succeeds
TEL AVIV, ISRAEL - In a move that has sparked both praise and criticism from around the world, US President Donald Trump announced a new Middle East peace plan on January 28, 2020. While the deal's success is far from certain, analysts say it could be a significant boost for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who has been facing mounting pressure to step down.
Netanyahu, who has served as prime minister longer than anyone in Israel's history, has been embroiled in a series of corruption scandals and has faced possible indictment over bribery allegations. However, his fortunes may have taken a turn with the Trump administration's plan, which includes significant concessions to Israel on issues such as settlements and Jerusalem's status.
"This deal is a game-changer for Netanyahu," said Dr. Dahlia Scheindlin, a senior fellow at the Israel Democracy Institute. "It gives him a much-needed boost in popularity and helps to distract from his own scandals."
The Trump plan, which has been widely criticized by Palestinians and many international leaders, includes a proposal for a US-led economic development fund for the Palestinian territories. However, it also calls for significant Israeli control over Jerusalem's holy sites and allows for continued settlement expansion.
Netanyahu's government has welcomed the deal, with the prime minister hailing it as a "historic opportunity" for Israel. However, opposition leaders have criticized the plan, saying it undermines any hope of a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
The deal's success is far from certain, and many analysts say it will be difficult to implement without significant concessions from both sides. However, if successful, it could be a major coup for Netanyahu, who has been struggling to maintain his grip on power.
"Netanyahu's survival depends on his ability to deliver results," said Dr. Gideon Rahat, a senior fellow at the Israel Democracy Institute. "If this deal succeeds, it will give him a much-needed boost and help to solidify his position."
The Trump plan is just the latest development in a long and complex saga of Israeli politics. Netanyahu has served as prime minister for nearly two decades, but his power has been on the verge of collapse for years.
In 2019, he faced possible indictment over bribery allegations, and his government was forced to pass a law that would have granted him immunity from prosecution. However, the move sparked widespread protests and criticism from around the world.
Despite these challenges, Netanyahu remains in office, thanks in part to his ability to navigate complex international relationships and exploit divisions within his own party.
The Trump deal is just the latest example of this skill, and analysts say it could be a major factor in Netanyahu's continued survival as prime minister.
"Netanyahu has always been a master of playing the international game," said Dr. Scheindlin. "This deal is just another example of his ability to manipulate events to his advantage."
The success or failure of the Trump plan will have significant implications for both Israel and the wider Middle East. However, one thing is clear: whether it succeeds or not, Netanyahu's deal with Trump could be a major win for the Israeli prime minister.
Background
Benjamin Netanyahu has served as prime minister of Israel longer than anyone in history, with three non-consecutive stints over 18 years. He has been embroiled in a series of corruption scandals and has faced possible indictment over bribery allegations.
The Trump administration's Middle East peace plan was announced on January 28, 2020, and includes significant concessions to Israel on issues such as settlements and Jerusalem's status.
Additional Perspectives
Palestinian leaders have widely criticized the Trump plan, saying it undermines any hope of a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. However, some analysts say that the deal could be a major breakthrough for peace in the region.
"The Trump plan is a significant step forward," said Dr. Daniel Levy, a senior fellow at the New America Foundation. "It recognizes Israel's right to exist and offers a framework for a two-state solution."
However, others are more skeptical, saying that the deal will only serve to entrench Israeli control over the Palestinian territories.
"This plan is a disaster for the Palestinians," said Dr. Mouin Rabbani, a senior fellow at the Institute for Palestine Studies. "It gives Israel everything it wants and leaves the Palestinians with nothing."
Current Status
The Trump plan is currently being reviewed by both Israeli and Palestinian leaders, who are expected to make a decision on whether to accept or reject the deal in the coming weeks.
Netanyahu's government has welcomed the deal, but opposition leaders have criticized it as a "historic mistake" for Israel. The fate of the plan remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: whether it succeeds or not, Netanyahu's deal with Trump could be a major win for the Israeli prime minister.
*Reporting by Vox.*
