Trump Takes the Lead on Gaza - But Excludes Hamas, Raising Eyebrows

At the United Nations General Assembly, U.S. President Donald Trump convened a meeting with leaders from eight Muslim-majority nations-Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Turkey, Pakistan, Indonesia, Egypt, Jordan, and the UAE-to address the critical situation in Gaza. The discussions centered on the urgent need for both humanitarian relief and a political resolution to the ongoing conflict.

Trump presented a comprehensive 21-point plan designed to immediately halt hostilities and create a pathway for lasting peace. This proposal outlines a 20-day ceasefire to allow humanitarian aid to flow, a phased release of hostages held by Hamas, and a gradual withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza. To maintain stability during this transition, the plan suggests forming a temporary peacekeeping force from the participating regional nations. It also promises international support for rebuilding Gaza's infrastructure, but notably excludes the Hamas faction from any future governance role, a point that has sparked debate over the plan's long-term viability.

The regional leaders expressed general support for the initiative's humanitarian goals and the proposed temporary ceasefire. Many, including Indonesia's President Prabowo, emphasized that a durable solution should be based on a two-state framework that also addresses Israel's security concerns. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan described the talks as constructive, hinting at a potential joint statement. While Trump reassured attendees of his opposition to Israeli annexation of the West Bank, the decision to exclude Hamas remains a point of contention, with some leaders arguing that engaging all Palestinian factions is necessary for a sustainable peace.

The international community is closely monitoring the progress of these negotiations. The upcoming weeks are seen as crucial for determining whether this initiative can achieve a practical ceasefire and establish a stable future for Gaza, with figures like French President Emmanuel Macron underscoring the importance of decisive action to end the conflict.