US President Donald Trump has promised “something special” in efforts to end the Gaza war, unveiling optimism about a sweeping ceasefire and post-war governance plan.
Yet Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s cautious response highlights the deep challenges still facing the proposal.
The White House has crafted a 21-point framework aimed at halting hostilities, releasing all hostages held by Hamas, and laying out a long-term structure for Gaza’s governance. Trump, speaking confidently on Sunday, suggested the plan could usher in a breakthrough moment.
“We have a real chance for greatness in the Middle East,” Trump wrote on social media. “All are on board for something special, first time ever. We will get it done.”
Despite the bold claim, Netanyahu signaled reluctance in a Fox News interview. “We’re working on it. It’s not been finalized yet,” he said, avoiding a full endorsement of the American plan.
Three Israeli officials later confirmed that Netanyahu intends to raise reservations and push for modifications.
While much of the framework had been coordinated with Israel in advance, sticking points remain, particularly the plan’s references to the Palestinian Authority and aspirations for a future Palestinian state—both issues Netanyahu’s coalition partners fiercely oppose.
The timing of the discussions is critical. The Gaza Health Ministry reported on Sunday that the war’s death toll had surpassed 66,000, underscoring the humanitarian urgency.
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Still, Hamas insisted it had not received any new proposals, though it expressed willingness to review offers from mediators “positively and responsibly.”
Trump’s plan comes after months of failed negotiations. A previous round collapsed in July after the US abruptly withdrew, citing Hamas’ unwillingness to negotiate in good faith.
Efforts by Egypt and Qatar to revive talks have since faltered, further complicated by an Israeli strike in Doha targeting senior Hamas leaders. Netanyahu, defending the attack, insisted, “Our goal was Hamas. Not anything beyond it.”
Domestically, Netanyahu faces immense pressure from two directions. On one hand, far-right allies like Itamar Ben Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich have threatened to bring down his government if the war ends without Hamas’ total defeat.
“Mr. Prime Minister, you do not have a mandate to end the war without a complete defeat of Hamas,” Ben Gvir wrote on social media.
On the other hand, families of Israeli hostages have mounted increasingly vocal protests. At a rally in New York’s Central Park on Sunday, relatives accused Netanyahu of prolonging the war for political gain.
Ilana Gritzweski, a freed hostage and partner of captive Matan Zangauker, said: “Netanyahu chose to bomb Matan and the other hostages. He chose death over life. President Trump, you have the power to end the war and bring all the hostages home.”
As Trump prepares to meet Netanyahu in Washington on Monday, the stakes are high. For the US President, the plan could serve as a signature diplomatic achievement. For Netanyahu, it risks deepening political divides at home. Whether the optimism Trump projects can overcome these tensions remains to be seen.
CNN
