Trump Empowers Netanyahu to 'Finish the Job' in Gaza: A Plan for Peace or Something More?
In a surprising turn at the White House this week, President Donald Trump unveiled a plan aimed at wrapping up the ongoing Gaza war, giving Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu what some describe as a green light to "finish the job." But as details emerge, it's clear this isn't just about military endpoints—it's laced with calls for peace, apologies, and tough questions about humanitarian aid and future stability in the region.
The announcement came alongside a series of diplomatic maneuvers, including Trump's insistence that Netanyahu apologize to Qatar for a recent bombing in Doha. This incident, which escalated tensions last month, highlights how personal interventions from the U.S. leader can reshape alliances overnight. Trump, known for his direct style, reportedly told Netanyahu point-blank: "Make the call." And he did, smoothing over what could have been a major rift.
At its core, Trump's strategy seeks to broker a ceasefire and pave the way for broader Middle East peace. He envisions a deal that reins in hostilities while opening doors for economic partnerships—think reconstruction projects in Gaza funded by Gulf states like Qatar and Saudi Arabia. It's a vision that echoes Trump's deal-making roots, but critics wonder if it's genuine diplomacy or a veiled ultimatum: peace, or else face U.S. pressure to comply.
Yet, beneath the headlines, real human stakes loom large. Gaza's humanitarian crisis has worsened, with aid convoys often blocked at borders. Trump has demonstrated he can compel Israel to act when motivated—witness the Qatar apology. So why not push harder for more aid trucks to roll in, or curb reports of plans that could displace Palestinian communities? Observers point out that while the plan mentions reconstruction, it stops short on immediate relief, leaving families in Gaza waiting for tangible help.
This initiative builds on years of U.S.-Israel ties under strain from the conflict. Netanyahu, facing domestic pressures, sees Trump's backing as a lifeline, allowing him to pursue security goals without isolation. For Palestinians, however, it's a mixed bag: promises of peace sound hopeful, but without enforceable aid commitments, they risk being sidelined.
Looking ahead, the plan's success hinges on buy-in from regional players. If Trump can leverage his influence to boost aid flows and prevent escalation, it could mark a turning point. Otherwise, it might just prolong the uncertainty for those caught in the crossfire. As always in these high-stakes talks, the real test will be in the follow-through.
This article is a summary based on original reporting. For the full story, read the original at The Age.