Moscow: Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has endorsed US President Donald Trump's plan for resolving the Gaza situation, labeling it as the 'best thing on the table.' Lavrov's remarks came during an interview for the Bridges to the East project, as reported by the Russian state-run Tass news agency. He highlighted that although the plan's 20 points are broad and mainly focus on the Gaza Strip, it is currently the most feasible option available.
According to Anadolu Agency, Lavrov stated, "US President Donald Trump proposed his '20 points,' which mention the word 'statehood,' but in rather general terms." He noted that the plan only pertains to what remains of the Gaza Strip and does not mention the West Bank. However, Lavrov emphasized a realistic approach, acknowledging this plan as the most viable option at present.
Lavrov further expressed that the plan could gain acceptance from both Arab countries and Israel. He added, "At the very least, it's the best option in terms of acceptability for the Arabs and non-rejection by Israel. But most importantly, it needs to be acceptable to the Palestinians."
The Russian foreign minister praised Trump's initiative as a positive step towards swiftly ending bloodshed, saving lives, and restoring the Gaza Strip. Lavrov asserted that the plan's success hinges on Palestinian acceptance.
He also mentioned Moscow's support for ongoing indirect negotiations in Egypt involving Trkiye, Qatar, the United States, and Israel. Lavrov emphasized that the main challenge is to ensure that hostilities do not resume, highlighting the importance of working out the plan's details to prevent any relapse in violence.