Trump to push Netanyahu on Gaza peace plan at White House

US President Donald Trump will host Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House on Monday for critical discussions aimed at finalizing a long-sought Gaza peace deal.

Following talks with Arab and Muslim leaders last week, Trump claimed a deal to end the nearly two-year Gaza conflict, secure the release of hostages held by Hamas, and disarm the militant group is nearly complete.

Trump hinted at a breakthrough on Sunday, posting on his Truth Social platform: “ALL ARE ON BOARD FOR SOMETHING SPECIAL, FIRST TIME EVER. WE WILL GET IT DONE!!!”

However, Netanyahu’s recent statements have been less encouraging. In a defiant UN speech, he vowed to “finish the job” against Hamas and opposed the creation of a Palestinian state recently recognized by Western nations.

Netanyahu also seems unwilling to pause the ongoing military offensive in Gaza City, from which hundreds of thousands have fled.

This will be Netanyahu’s fourth White House visit since Trump took office in January. Although usually a strong Netanyahu supporter, Trump has recently expressed frustration, warning against West Bank annexation and condemning Israel’s strike on Hamas targets in Qatar.

Families of Israeli hostages urged Trump to uphold his proposed ceasefire, cautioning against actions that could derail progress. Experts say the success of the talks depends on how much pressure Trump applies to Netanyahu, who prefers continuing the conflict but might be persuaded with sustained effort.

The two leaders will hold a joint news conference at 1:15 pm US Eastern Time (1715 GMT) on Monday.