The Global Story Is Trump on the brink of achieving peace in Gaza?
Oct 6, 2025
Tom Bateman, a BBC foreign policy correspondent with extensive experience in the Middle East, shares insights on Donald Trump's surprising peace initiative for Gaza. They discuss the backdrop of previous diplomatic efforts under Biden, the recent breakout of violence, and the dynamics of Trump’s public pressure tactics on Israel and Hamas. Bateman analyzes the vague 20-point plan and Hamas's mixed response, and speculates on the future of negotiations in Cairo, highlighting both the unprecedented momentum and the risks involved.
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Biden-Era Deal Laid The Groundwork
- The ceasefire and hostage-exchange framework began under Biden and produced weekly releases then collapsed after March due to mutual recriminations.
- That fragile progress set the background for Trump's later diplomatic moves and resumed negotiations.
International Isolation Shifted U.S. Position
- Trump's initial unequivocal support for Israel shifted as international isolation of Netanyahu grew and European pressure mounted.
- That isolation and European moves pushed Trump toward concessions palatable to Arab states.
Doha Strike Triggered A Diplomatic Reaction
- The Israeli strike in Doha enraged Qatar and Arab leaders and provoked a strong U.S. reaction that pushed Netanyahu to apologize.
- Tom Bateman links that apology and the Doha incident as a turning point in rallying Arab support and nudging Trump's stance.