US President Donald Trump declared on Sunday that the Middle East stands “on the verge of greatness,” touting progress on a sweeping 21-point Gaza plan ahead of his meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
“We have a real chance for greatness in the Middle East. All are on board for something special, for the first time ever. We will get it done,” Trump posted on Truth Social.
The proposal—pitched on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly—calls for an immediate end to the war in Gaza, the release of all remaining hostages, the disarmament of Hamas, and the deployment of an international force to temporarily manage Gaza’s civilian affairs. But it also includes Israel releasing thousands of Palestinian terrorists—a price many in Jerusalem consider unthinkable.
Netanyahu, speaking to Fox News, struck a cautious note: “We’re working with President Trump’s team, actually, as we speak. And I hope we can make it a go, because we want to free our hostages. We want to get rid of Hamas rule.” The prime minister stressed the plan is not finalized.
US Vice President JD Vance said he was “cautiously hopeful,” but acknowledged that “these things can get derailed at the very last minute.”
The fundamental question, however, is not Trump’s optimism—but Israel’s red lines. Trump has already said he will not allow Israel to annex Judea and Samaria. Meanwhile, Netanyahu has quietly explored extending sovereignty over parts of the biblical heartland. In late August, Yediot Achronot revealed the prime minister convened ministers to discuss potential annexation scenarios.
And just hours before meeting Trump, Netanyahu privately reassured leaders of the Yesha Council—the umbrella body for local authorities in Judea and Samaria—that he would raise Israel’s sovereign claim to those territories in his White House discussions. The council left the meeting unsettled, noting Netanyahu gave no timetable for action.
While Trump presses for a grand deal, international monitors, and territorial restraint, Netanyahu must consider his base, which considers Judea and Samaria inseparable from Israel’s destiny.
“Greatness” may indeed be within reach, but Jerusalem and Washington may be talking about entirely different things when they speak of greatness. Whatever path is taken, one thing is certain: Israel cannot afford a repetition of past mistakes, like premature concessions, mass prisoner releases, and illusions of “international guarantees.” For Jerusalem, greatness is not measured in applause at the United Nations—but in secure borders, sovereignty in its land, and the safe return of its citizens.
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