Background on Benjamin Netanyahu and His Current Situation
Benjamin Netanyahu, the Prime Minister of Israel, is facing increasing international isolation and domestic pressure as he prepares to meet with U.S. President Donald Trump. Netanyahu aims to defend his strategy of “finishing the job” against Hamás in Gaza during their upcoming meeting on Monday.
Trump’s 21-Point Plan for Ending the Gaza War
Trump recently unveiled a 21-point plan to end the war in Gaza during meetings with Arab and Muslim leaders on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly. Trump expressed optimism about achieving “something great” in the Middle East, stating, “Let’s all come together for something special, for the first time. We will achieve it!”
Trump had previously claimed to have reached an “agreement” to end the conflict, and Netanyahu reaffirmed his commitment to “finishing the job” in Palestinian territories ravaged by war at the UN.
Experts’ Perspectives on Netanyahu’s Predicament
According to experts interviewed by AFP, Netanyahu is cornered and seeking to conclude the war amid growing national and international pressure. Eytan Gilboa, an expert in Israeli-U.S. relations at Bar-Ilan University, stated, “There is no other option but to accept the plan since the U.S., particularly Trump, are almost his last remaining allies.”
Public Opinion and Domestic Pressure in Israel
In Israel, tens of thousands have taken to the streets repeatedly demanding a ceasefire. On Saturday, protesters urged Trump to use his influence to achieve this goal. Lishay Miran-Lavi, wife of Omri Miran—still held captive in Gaza—emphasized the need for a comprehensive and global agreement ending the war and reuniting all hostages and soldiers with their families.
Growing International Isolation of Israel
Israel’s international isolation has intensified in recent days, with several countries recognizing the State of Palestine, including France, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia.
Key Points of Trump’s 21-Point Plan
According to a diplomatic source, Trump’s plan includes a permanent ceasefire in Gaza, the release of Israeli hostages held in Palestinian territories, Israel’s withdrawal, and a future government in Gaza without Hamás—whose October 7, 2023 attack on southern Israel triggered the war.
Hamás’ political bureau chief, Hossam Badran, stated Sunday night that the group had not received any official proposal from Qatari or Egyptian mediators.
“Consenso Global”?
Arab and Muslim leaders have favorably received the proposal, calling for Israel’s military offensive to cease immediately. However, certain aspects might be unacceptable to Netanyahu, who requires support from the far-right to sustain his governing coalition.
One contentious point is the role of the Palestinian Authority in governing Gaza, which is contingent on internal reforms according to the plan. These reforms “could take years,” warned Eytan Gilboa.
Global Consensus Requirement
Ksenia Svetlova, a former parliamentarian and director of the ROPES organization for regional cooperation, noted that such a global plan necessitates global consensus. Another point of contention is who would ensure security in Gaza once Israel withdraws and Hamás is disarmed.
Washington’s initiative envisions an international security force comprising Palestinian forces and troops from Arab and Muslim countries. However, the command structure and operational control remain unclear.
“This plan internationalizes the Gaza conflict in an unprecedented manner,” Svetlova observed. “However, without a clear guiding principle, defined objectives, or designated leadership to steer it to success, the element of unpredictability is ever-present.”
Context and Impact of the Gaza War
The war in Gaza began with Hamás’ October 7, 2023 attack on southern Israel, resulting in 1,219 deaths—mostly civilians—according to official sources. Israel’s retaliatory offensive in Palestinian territories has caused approximately 66,000 deaths, mostly civilians, as per the Hamás-controlled Health Ministry’s figures verified by the UN.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who is Benjamin Netanyahu, and why is he relevant? Benjamin Netanyahu is the Prime Minister of Israel, facing increasing pressure to end the conflict in Gaza both domestically and internationally.
- What is Trump’s 21-point plan for ending the Gaza war? The plan includes a permanent ceasefire, release of hostages, Israel’s withdrawal from Gaza, and a future government in Gaza without Hamás.
- Why is Netanyahu meeting with Trump amid growing isolation? Netanyahu seeks to defend his strategy and garner support for ending the war, given limited international allies.
- What are the contentious points in Trump’s plan? Points of disagreement include the Palestinian Authority’s role in governing Gaza and ensuring security post-withdrawal.
- What is the current situation in Gaza? The war has resulted in significant civilian casualties on both sides, with ongoing calls for a ceasefire and comprehensive agreement.
