Experts suggest Trump needs to exert pressure on Netanyahu to achieve a ceasefire in Gaza.

The White House has emphasized that President Donald Trump’s primary goal in the Middle East is to achieve an end to hostilities in Gaza. However, as Trump meets with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu this week, the two leaders have expressed mutual admiration for one another amidst the ongoing conflict.

Currently, the situation in Gaza remains dire, with substantial civilian casualties reported. Over 57,575 individuals have lost their lives due to the conflict, prompting urgent calls for a peaceful resolution. Analysts assert that if the Trump administration is sincere in seeking a long-term ceasefire, it must strategically leverage U.S. military aid to Israel as a means to influence Netanyahu’s compliance with a ceasefire agreement.

Brian Finucane, a senior adviser at the International Crisis Group, noted the similarity between Trump’s rhetoric and that of his predecessor, Joe Biden. Both administrations have advocated for a ceasefire yet have hesitated to apply substantial pressure on Israel to cease its military operations. Finucane highlights that the U.S. holds significant leverage through its annual military aid to Israel, which could be utilized to foster a peaceful resolution.

Despite U.S. optimism regarding a potential 60-day truce that might lead to a permanent ceasefire, Netanyahu’s statements indicate a different agenda. He reiterated Israel’s intent to complete its military operations against Hamas, emphasizing security needs and expressing a commitment to continuing their efforts in Gaza.

Critics, including Annelle Sheline from the Quincy Institute for Responsible Statecraft, argue that Israel stands as the barrier to a ceasefire, given Hamas’s stated willingness to achieve peace. She asserts that for meaningful progress to occur, the U.S. must utilize its extensive leverage in the region.

The humanitarian crisis in Gaza has escalated, with hospitals nearing capacity and growing food insecurity. Many civilians are suffering from preventable diseases due to insufficient medical supplies and deteriorating conditions exacerbated by ongoing hostilities.

In the context of the delicate negotiations regarding a ceasefire, rights advocates have raised concerns that Israel may use any pause in military action to further entrench its occupation of Palestinian territories. Discussions have been reported about potential displacement strategies for Gazans, prompting international alarm about ethnic cleansing.

The focus on finding a sustainable resolution to the conflict highlights the pressing need for humanitarian aid and the protection of civilian lives. Trump’s administration should be urged to take concrete actions in support of a peaceful solution, in alignment with the aspirations for stability and safety in the region.

As conversations continue, the global community is hopeful that diplomatic efforts will yield a truce that prioritizes the well-being of civilians and fosters long-term peace.

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