Monday’s White House meeting between President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is poised to be either a breakthrough for peace or a public clash of political wills. At the heart of the discussion is a U.S.-proposed deal to end the Gaza war, a plan Trump is championing but one that Netanyahu appears hesitant to embrace.
President Trump has been broadcasting his confidence in the deal, which reportedly came together after talks with key Arab leaders. His recent message on Truth Social, hinting at a “first time ever” achievement, signals his personal investment in securing a diplomatic victory. The deal itself is comprehensive, aiming to free hostages held by Hamas and ensure the militant group is disarmed.
This push for peace is meeting resistance from Prime Minister Netanyahu, who has repeatedly stated his intention to see the war through to a military conclusion. Having vowed to “finish the job” against Hamas, his government has overseen an offensive in Gaza City that has forced thousands to flee. This military focus puts him at odds with the diplomatic track favored by his American counterpart.
The relationship between the two leaders, normally a bastion of mutual support, has shown recent signs of strain. Trump has publicly warned Netanyahu against annexing the West Bank and criticized a recent Israeli military action in Qatar, indicating his patience may be wearing thin. This backdrop makes the Monday meeting particularly charged with significance.
The summit will test the limits of U.S. influence. As analyst Natan Sachs observed, the outcome depends on how much pressure Trump is willing to apply. A key point of disagreement is the future of Gaza, with the U.S. plan envisioning a transitional authority and an eventual role for a reformed Palestinian Authority—a scenario Netanyahu has unequivocally rejected, setting the stage for a critical and potentially contentious negotiation.
A Path to Peace or a Political Clash? Trump and Netanyahu’s Gaza Summit
