President Donald Trump welcomed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to the White House on Monday, saying he is “very confident” a Gaza peace agreement is near. The meeting follows Trump’s weekend hints of an imminent 21-point ceasefire plan.
Key Disputes Remain
Sources told ABC News that Washington and Jerusalem still differ on three core issues: the role of the Palestinian Authority in Gaza’s future, the extent of Israeli security control, and the timetable for Hamas disarmament. Details of Trump’s plan have not been made public.
Israeli Minister Sets Hard Conditions
Far-right Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich outlined six demands for Netanyahu, including permanent Israeli military presence around Gaza, full Hamas disarmament, and rejection of any independent Palestinian state. He also opposed involvement by the Palestinian Authority or Qatar in post-war governance.
Heavy Strikes and Rising Toll
The Israel Defense Forces reported 140 strikes across Gaza in the past 24 hours. Gaza’s Health Ministry said 50 people were killed and 184 injured during the same period, bringing the total death toll since the war began in October 2023 to over 66,000.
Regional Tensions Spread
The IDF intercepted a missile launched from Yemen, part of ongoing attacks by the Iran-aligned Houthi movement. Israeli forces continue operations in Gaza City despite mounting international pressure for a ceasefire and worsening humanitarian conditions.
Trump Signals Optimism
Over the weekend, Trump teased “something special” in the Middle East, suggesting unprecedented cooperation among regional leaders. He previously said any deal would secure the release of hostages and “end the war.”
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