US President Donald Trump has revealed that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is likely to meet him in Florida, as efforts to solidify a fragile Gaza ceasefire face ongoing challenges. The potential meeting, which could also include Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi, aims to push forward the second phase of the peace process.
Details of the Proposed Florida Meeting
Speaking to reporters at the White House on Thursday, Trump confirmed that while a formal schedule is not yet set, Netanyahu has expressed a desire for the meeting. The US President is expected to spend the holidays in his home state of Florida. When questioned about Egyptian involvement, Trump warmly endorsed President El-Sisi's participation, calling him a friend and stating he would "love to have him" at the discussions.
This diplomatic move comes at a critical juncture. The initial truce between Israel and Hamas remains delicate, and roadblocks are hindering progress to the next stage. Egypt's role has been pivotal, not only as a key mediator in the negotiations but also in coordinating humanitarian aid for Gaza and engaging in talks about postwar reconstruction.
Advancing the 20-Point Peace Plan
Parallel to these high-level meeting plans, the Trump administration is working on the ground to implement its proposed solution. On Friday, Trump's envoy, Steve Witkoff, is scheduled to meet with senior officials from Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey in Miami. This meeting is a concerted effort by the US to build momentum for President Trump's 20-point peace plan, which was the foundation for the current ceasefire.
The international community has shown support for this framework. The United Nations Security Council recently passed a resolution backing Trump's Gaza peace proposal. The plan outlines a detailed path forward, including the deployment of an International Stabilization Force. This force would consist of troops from several Muslim-majority nations, working alongside Egypt and Israel to maintain order as Israeli military forces withdraw from the Gaza Strip.
Structure for a Post-Conflict Gaza
A central component of the proposal is the establishment of a transitional government. This interim administration would operate under a "Board of Peace," a body that President Trump has offered to chair personally. This structure is designed to oversee governance and reconstruction efforts in the territory during the sensitive transition period following the conflict.
The upcoming meetings in Florida and Miami underscore the US's active, hands-on approach to securing a lasting peace in the region. By bringing key leaders and diplomats together, the Trump administration hopes to translate the fragile truce into a more permanent and structured resolution, addressing both immediate humanitarian needs and long-term stability for Gaza.
