Negotiations aimed at ending the ongoing conflict in Gaza have been described as “intense and productive” by Donald Trump. In a post on Truth Social, the former president stated that discussions with Arab leaders will continue “for as long as necessary.” These talks took place in New York during the United Nations General Assembly, where Trump addressed the urgent humanitarian situation in the enclave.
Trump highlighted that for four days, the negotiations focused on reaching a “Successfully Completed Agreement.” While details of the potential deal remain undisclosed, he has previously underscored the necessity for Hamas to release all Israeli hostages as a condition for any settlement. In his message, Trump emphasized the goal of achieving “PERMANENT AND LONGLASTING PEACE!”
The effort to secure either a complete cessation of hostilities or a temporary ceasefire has faced significant challenges. Both Israel and Hamas have accused each other of failing to uphold commitments, complicating the prospect of a sustainable resolution. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who experienced a mass walkout during his speech at the General Assembly, reaffirmed his commitment to continue military operations until all hostages are returned and Hamas disarmed.
In a combative address, Netanyahu stated his determination to “finish the job” against Hamas, while also criticizing the recognition of a Palestinian state by some Western nations. This recognition, he claimed, would reward Hamas, which executed a deadly attack on October 7, 2023, resulting in the deaths of 1,200 people and the abduction of 251 hostages.
Trump reported that Hamas is aware of the ongoing discussions and that Israel, including Netanyahu, has been informed at all levels. He remarked, “There is more Goodwill and Enthusiasm for getting a Deal done, after so many decades, than I have ever seen before.”
The negotiations included proposals presented by Trump to leaders from Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Egypt on Monday, as reported by his special envoy, Steve Witkoff. Concurrently, Netanyahu held talks with Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed, the Minister of Foreign Affairs for the United Arab Emirates, who stressed the urgent need for a permanent ceasefire. Bin Zayed reiterated support for a two-state solution amid growing concerns over Israel’s plans to expand settlements in the West Bank.
The situation in Gaza has reached a critical point, with health officials reporting that more than 65,000 people have died in the enclave over the past 23 months due to ongoing military actions. Israel’s recent ground offensive, which began in September, has led to widespread destruction, displacing approximately 90% of the population and causing a humanitarian crisis.
The humanitarian organization Doctors Without Borders announced that it was forced to cease operations in northern Gaza, stating, “We have been left with no choice but to stop our activities, as our clinics are encircled by Israeli forces.”
The escalating conflict has dominated discussions at the United Nations General Assembly, where Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas addressed the body via video link following the revocation of his visa by the United States. Abbas condemned the situation in Gaza, describing it as a “war of genocide, destruction, starvation and displacement,” while distancing the Palestinian people from Hamas’ actions on October 7.
In this evolving landscape, the future of peace negotiations remains uncertain as both sides navigate a complex web of historical grievances, territorial claims, and deep-seated mistrust.
