President Donald Trump’s recent Gaza peace plan, negotiated through strategic alliances with younger Gulf Arab leaders and isolating Hamas, marks a significant shift in Middle Eastern relations. This achievement is the culmination of a long-term strategy initiated during his first term, focusing on modernizing regional leadership and countering threats from Iran. The plan has garnered widespread international support, including from countries like Egypt, Turkey, and Qatar, with Hamas agreeing to disarm under the pressure of global isolation.
The strategy began in January 2017 when Trump’s advisors assessed the failures of the previous administration’s foreign policies. They recognized the need to engage with the new generation of leaders in the Gulf, who were more open to Western values and economic development. By building relationships with these younger leaders, Trump laid the groundwork for future negotiations and alliances. This approach led to the Abraham Accords, a series of agreements between Israel and several Gulf Arab nations, which were a significant step towards regional peace.
When Trump returned to the White House, his administration focused on reversing the policies of the previous administration by re-imposing sanctions on Iran and strengthening support for Israel. This shift in policy was crucial in isolating Hamas and its allies, as well as weakening Iran’s influence in the region. The administration’s efforts to dismantle Iran’s nuclear program further contributed to the regional stability that allowed the peace plan to be implemented.
The peace plan, announced a few weeks ago, involved a 20-point agreement that required Hamas to disarm and discontinue its involvement in Palestinian governance. This plan was supported by multiple international stakeholders, including the United Nations, with the exception of Hamas. The agreement not only isolated Hamas from its allies but also provided a pathway for the Palestinian people to receive aid and support directly, bypassing Hamas entirely.
The success of this plan is attributed to Trump’s ability to leverage his relationships with Gulf leaders and his willingness to challenge conventional wisdom. The peace plan is viewed as a potential turning point for the Middle East, offering a chance for regional cooperation and economic growth. With Hamas sidelined and international support in place, the Middle East is positioned for a new era of stability and prosperity.