Trump to Meet Israeli PM as Gaza Plans Hang in the Balance

Florida: President Donald Trump is set to meet Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday at Mar-a-Lago, a discussion that could shape the administration’s next moves on Gaza ahead of major announcements expected in early January. The meeting comes amid concerns within the White House that Netanyahu is delaying the peace process and may restart military operations against Hamas, even as he seeks to persuade Trump to adopt a tougher stance.

U.S. officials are pushing to establish a Palestinian technocratic government and an international stabilization force for Gaza, with the possibility of advancing the plan at the World Economic Forum in Davos later this month. Trump’s envoy Steve Witkoff and adviser Jared Kushner have been coordinating with Egypt, Qatar and Turkey to prepare the next phase, which would involve Hamas disarming and Israeli forces pulling back. However, Netanyahu has voiced doubts about these proposals, setting up a pivotal meeting that could determine whether the peace process moves forward.

Although a ceasefire was declared in October 2025, violence and humanitarian hardship continue in Gaza. Clashes and reported attacks occur almost daily, with more than 400 Palestinians killed since the truce began, and both sides have accused each other of violations. Harsh winter storms have worsened conditions for displaced residents, flooding tents and causing additional deaths, while severe food shortages and a lack of adequate shelter and aid persist across the region.