Full Story Is the Trump plan for Gaza designed to fail?
Oct 1, 2025
In this discussion, David Smith, The Guardian’s Washington DC bureau chief and expert on US foreign policy, analyzes the recently announced Trump-Netanyahu Gaza plan. He argues that the proposal, lacking Palestinian input, primarily benefits Israel and may be a political maneuver. Key points include the implications of excluding Hamas, the potential for international oversight, and mixed reactions on the ground. Smith also delves into Trump's personal motivations, suggesting a blend of legacy ambition and genuine concern.
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Ultimatum Framing To Shift Blame
- The Trump-Netanyahu plan functions as an ultimatum framing Hamas as the party to blame if talks fail.
- David Smith says the plan portrays the US and Israel as reasonable while excluding Palestinian input.
Political Theatre Reinforces Alliances
- The public display emphasised political affinity between Trump and Netanyahu and their shared authoritarian tendencies.
- David Smith noted both leaders benefit politically from the spectacle and share motives to cling to power.
Asymmetric Terms Favor Israel
- The plan asks little from Israel while demanding major concessions from Hamas, creating asymmetric incentives.
- Smith argues Netanyahu can either claim victory if Hamas accepts or continue the war if they refuse.