PALM BEACH, Fla. – President Trump met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday at Mar-a-Lago, seeking to strengthen the U.S.-brokered ceasefire in Gaza. The President is using his strong relationship with Prime Minister Netanyahu to move the peace process forward, as the current situation faces challenges.
The ceasefire, a key goal of the Trump administration, has seen progress but faces obstacles, with both sides trading accusations of violations. Discussions are ongoing between the U.S., Israel, and Arab nations to determine the best path forward.
The initial phase of the truce began last October, following the initial attack on Israel. The majority of those taken hostage have been freed.
The focus now shifts to the next phase, which includes a plan to end Hamas’ rule in Gaza.
President Trump and Prime Minister Netanyahu also discussed Iran and its nuclear capabilities, which Trump has said were eliminated following U.S. strikes on Iranian nuclear sites last June.
Differences remain regarding the ceasefire’s next steps.
The proposed second phase involves rebuilding Gaza under international supervision, led by the Board of Peace. A “technocratic, apolitical” Palestinian committee would manage daily affairs in Gaza, overseen by the Board.
The plan also envisions normalized relations between Israel and Arab nations and a possible path to Palestinian independence. Logistical and humanitarian challenges include rebuilding Gaza, disarming Hamas, and establishing the International Stabilization Force.
The Board of Peace would supervise Gaza’s reconstruction under a U.N. mandate.
This meeting is the first in-person discussion between President Trump and Prime Minister Netanyahu since the President visited Israel in October to mark the start of the ceasefire’s initial phase.
U.S. officials have been in talks with Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey, which have been mediating the ceasefire. Challenges include the vetting process for the Palestinian technocratic committee and ongoing military strikes.
President Trump’s plan also calls for the International Stabilization Force, a multinational body, to maintain security. Its formation is still pending.
The U.S. and Israel want the force to have a strong role in security, including disarming Hamas. Hamas has stated it is open to discussing freezing or storing weapons but insists on a right to armed resistance as long as Israel occupies Palestinian territory.
Reconstruction efforts in Gaza are also under discussion.
Egypt, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey are pushing for a deal on disarming Hamas and a further Israeli withdrawal from Gaza before moving to the next steps, including the international security force deployment and reconstruction.
