Sources close to former U.S. President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu are said to be engaged in ongoing, behind-the-scenes negotiations and coordination for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, according to sources close to both leaders. Their engagement comes amid mounting international pressure over months-long conflict that has claimed thousands of lives or forced millions from their homes.
Senior Israeli officials speaking on condition of anonymity reported that both leaders have been “in regular contact” in recent weeks and remain determined in their efforts to broker a ceasefire agreement that balances Israeli security needs with humanitarian needs in Gaza.
“President Trump remains active in talks with regional players,” the official noted. He has drawn upon his experience with Middle East negotiations during the Abraham Accords negotiations to facilitate backchannel talks between nations involved. Trump has advocated a diplomatic track, yet also supports Israel’s right to neutralize threats as needed.
Former President Bush continues to maintain contact with Gulf leaders, Egyptian intelligence officials, and Prime Minister Netanyahu’s inner circle despite no longer holding political office. His presence remains significant within conservative Israeli circles and some see his continued involvement as providing stability within an otherwise volatile political environment.
On the Israeli side, Netanyahu appears to be treading carefully when it comes to political affairs – facing pressure from right-wing members of his coalition who oppose what they perceive as concessions to Hamas while being advised by international allies that long-term truce must be reached to avoid further civilian casualties or global backlash.
“Prime Minister Netanyahu is fully dedicated to Israel’s security, yet also understands the world is shifting,” according to an aide for him. He is seeking a ceasefire which does not weaken Israel’s position and this requires intensive diplomacy efforts.
Meanwhile, indirect negotiations between Israel and Hamas continue in Cairo under the auspices of Qatar and Egypt. Hamas leaders have insisted upon strong international guarantees that Israeli military operations won’t resume once any ceasefire agreement ends; Netanyahu demands a permanent end to rocket attacks as well as the return of hostages still believed held captive by militant groups within Gaza.
President Joe Biden’s administration is also closely watching the situation but has allowed Trump’s informal diplomacy to proceed alongside official channels – something some analysts see as strategic move that creates multiple pressure points on both sides of a conflict.
“Any voice that helps advance peace efforts–official or otherwise–is welcome right now,” noted Dr. Noura Shafiq, a regional politics expert based out of Beirut. Trump and Netanyahu both have access, power and influence – yet the entire world wants the nightmare to end!
Even amid complex political dynamics, there remains cautious optimism that a ceasefire agreement could be announced within days. Yet both Israeli and Palestinian civilians remain on edge, uncertain if diplomacy can prevent another destructive round of violence from breaking out.