As tensions continue to rise in the Israel-Gaza conflict, a crucial meeting is set for Monday between President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House. Trump is prepared to issue a stark ultimatum: accept his proposed 21-point peace plan or face the consequences of a potentially strained relationship. According to Axios, this plan is nearing completion, and Trump expressed confidence that Netanyahu is supportive. However, in a counterpoint, Netanyahu recently stated at the United Nations that Israel “must finish the job” against Hamas, indicating a significant divergence in their objectives.
Netanyahu’s insistence on a hardline approach suggests that he may resist Trump’s overtures. During his UN address, he emphasized the necessity of decisive action against Hamas and highlighted the importance of stopping Iran’s nuclear endeavors. This firm stance raises the stakes for Monday’s discussions, as observers note the president’s willingness to break from Netanyahu if he judges the Israeli leader is uncooperative.
According to a Trump adviser, “We’re waiting for the president to work his magic on Netanyahu.” Yet, frustration seems palpable within Trump’s inner circle as aides and envoys tire of Netanyahu’s steadfastness. An anonymous official voiced the escalating impatience, saying, “Everyone — and I mean everyone — is exasperated with Bibi.” This frustration comes after Trump’s heated phone conversation with Netanyahu following an Israeli drone strike in Qatar targeting Hamas leaders.
Additionally, concerns linger regarding the stability of relations in the region. Trump has made clear that he will not permit Israel to annex the West Bank, a significant point he reiterated to Arab leaders and reporters. He stated emphatically, “I will not allow Israel to annex the West Bank. Nope. I will not allow it. It’s not gonna happen.” This declaration adds another layer of complexity to his negotiations with Netanyahu, who has been publicly committed to a more aggressive military posture in the region.
The context of the upcoming meeting is critical. It follows a difficult encounter between Netanyahu and White House envoy Steve Witkoff, along with Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner. According to sources, that Sunday meeting did not achieve the desired results, leading both aides to their limits with the Israeli leadership. The mood seems to shift, as while Trump maintains an optimistic front, saying, “We’re doing very well” and projecting a sense of peace opportunity, underlying tensions could derail progress.
Predicting the outcomes of Monday’s meeting remains a challenge. An administration official warned that discussions could become volatile if tensions spike, reflecting the fragility of the diplomatic process. As the situation evolves, the stakes remain high for all parties involved. Trump’s orientation towards a peace agreement could define not only his administration’s foreign policy but also his legacy in the tumultuous landscape of Middle Eastern politics.
"*" indicates required fields
