President Donald Trump on Monday unveiled an ambitious blueprint to end the war in Gaza, presenting himself not only as mediator but as future overseer of the territory’s reconstruction. Standing beside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House, Trump said Israel had accepted the proposal and challenged Hamas to do the same.
“This war could stop right now if both sides agree,” Trump declared. “Within 72 hours of Israel’s acceptance, every hostage must be released. If Hamas refuses, Israel will have my full backing to finish the job.”
The much-awaited press-conference featuring President Donald J. Trump and Prime Minister Netanyahu following the release of the President’s 21-Point Plan for peace concluded just over an hour ago.
Prime Minister Netanyahu said he is prepared to accept the plan. The response from Hamas has not been received yet.
President Trump said when describing his peace plan: “If Hamas rejects the deal, which is always possible — they’re the only one left, everyone else has accepted it, but I have a feeling that we’re going to have a positive answer. But if not, as you know, Bibi, you’d have our full backing to do what you would have to do.”