Former US President Donald Trump is set to host Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida today, marking their fifth in-person meeting on American soil this year. The high-stakes talks come at a critical juncture, with significant concerns over the stability of Trump's Gaza ceasefire plan and the potential for a broader regional conflict.
A Critical Summit Amidst Regional Instability
The meeting, scheduled for 1pm Eastern Time, follows closely on the heels of Trump hosting Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy just a day prior. Netanyahu departed Israel on Sunday for this latest diplomatic engagement, which occurs against a backdrop of escalating fears. There is growing apprehension that Israel may be preparing to launch new military offensives against regional adversaries, a move that could plunge the Middle East into deeper instability.
The primary item on the agenda is the precarious ceasefire in Gaza. This agreement, forged in October, brought a halt to Israel's devastating two-year military campaign. While the initial phase has been largely implemented—involving an Israeli troop pullback to new positions and Hamas releasing all living hostages and all but one of the deceased—the path forward is fraught with difficulty.
Stalled Progress and Broader Threats
Substantial challenges now block the implementation of the second phase of Trump's 20-point peace plan. Sources indicate that the White House harbours fears both Israel and Hamas are "dragging their feet" on these next steps. Trump has suggested Netanyahu requested these talks, potentially to refocus strategic pressure onto Iran, which Israel accuses of rapidly accelerating its ballistic missile programme in recent months.
Beyond Gaza, the spectre of wider conflict looms large. Key concerns include:
- A potential Israeli offensive against Hezbollah in Lebanon, which would shatter a ceasefire that has held for over a year.
- Direct strikes against Iran, with Trump possibly being urged to authorise further US military action against the Islamic Republic.
This confluence of issues makes the Mar-a-Lago summit one of the most consequential encounters between the two leaders in 2024. The outcome could significantly influence the immediate future of Gaza and define the next chapter of confrontation between Israel and Iran's allies in the region.
