Washington:US President Donald Trump has urged Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to advance steps toward implementing his Gaza plan following Israel's recent parliamentary elections, according to reports from Israeli media.
According to Anadolu Agency, Trump communicated this message during a phone conversation with Netanyahu, as reported by Israel's Channel 12. The discussion, which included US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Trump's envoys Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff, also touched on issues related to the conflict with Iran.
The Gaza plan involves the transfer of administration in Gaza to a Palestinian technocratic committee and the supervision of weapons under international oversight, alongside a phased Israeli withdrawal and reconstruction efforts. These steps are expected to proceed regardless of the incoming Israeli government. The plan had been on hold due to Israel's electoral campaign, as the US sought to avoid politicization of the issue.
A senior US official indicated that the Trump administration now anticipates Israel's approval of previously delayed steps. The official emphasized the necessity for full cooperation from the Israeli government and clarified that Gaza's reconstruction would not commence without progress on disarming Hamas. Verification processes would ensure a gradual approach.
Former British Prime Minister Tony Blair, a senior member of Trump's Board of Peace, visited Israel following the call to garner support for the plan. The first phase of the initiative, announced in 2025, included a ceasefire and the release of hostages and prisoners from both sides. The second phase involves deploying an international stabilization force and managing Gaza's weapons under international supervision.
Since October 2023, Israel's military actions in Gaza have resulted in significant casualties and devastation, with more than 74,000 individuals killed and over 175,000 injured. The US administration's renewed push coincides with Israel's uncertain political landscape after its recent elections.