OPINION – Can Trump End the Israel-Palestine War? Here’s How It Could Happen.

The idea that Donald Trump could single-handedly end the Israel-Palestine war might sound far-fetched to some, but his track record and unique approach to international diplomacy suggest that it’s not entirely out of the question. While the conflict is deeply rooted in complex historical, religious, and political issues, Trump’s unorthodox methods and determination to achieve what others have failed to do could potentially make a difference. Here’s how Trump might succeed where others have not.

1. Leverage from the Abraham Accords

One of Trump’s most notable achievements in the Middle East was brokering the Abraham Accords, which normalized relations between Israel and several Arab states, including the UAE, Bahrain, Sudan, and Morocco. These agreements demonstrated Trump’s ability to shift the regional landscape in ways that had been previously unimaginable.

The Abraham Accords have created a new regional dynamic, where Arab countries that once refused to engage with Israel are now building diplomatic and economic ties. This momentum could be harnessed to bring Israel and Palestine to the negotiating table. Trump could leverage these new alliances to apply pressure on both sides. The Arab states involved in the accords could be encouraged to mediate, using their newfound influence with Israel to advocate for Palestinian rights and a fair resolution to the conflict.

2. A Pragmatic Approach to Palestinian Leadership

One of the biggest obstacles to peace has been the divided Palestinian leadership. The Palestinian Authority (PA) in the West Bank and Hamas in Gaza have long been at odds, with Hamas refusing to recognize Israel and the PA struggling to maintain legitimacy. Trump’s direct and transactional approach could be used to unite these factions under a common goal.

Trump has shown a willingness to engage with leaders others have shunned, as seen in his meetings with North Korea’s Kim Jong-un. By applying this strategy to the Palestinian leadership, Trump could potentially broker an agreement that brings Hamas and the PA together, offering them incentives in exchange for a unified stance in peace negotiations. This could be key to creating a legitimate and coherent Palestinian negotiating partner, which has been a stumbling block in past peace efforts.

3. Economic Incentives and “Deal-Making” Diplomacy

Trump’s background as a businessman means he sees deals where others see deadlock. His administration’s approach to the Israel-Palestine conflict included the “Peace to Prosperity” plan, which offered economic development as a cornerstone for peace. While the plan was criticized for heavily favoring Israel, the basic premise of using economic incentives to drive peace is a strategy that could be refined and reapplied.

Trump could propose a new deal that includes significant economic investments in Palestinian territories, funded by a coalition of international partners and Gulf states that have already shown a willingness to invest in the region. By focusing on economic development, job creation, and infrastructure improvement, Trump could offer the Palestinian people a tangible stake in peace. This approach would not only improve living conditions but also create a powerful incentive for peace that could outweigh the appeal of continued conflict.

4. Bold Diplomatic Moves

Throughout his presidency, Trump demonstrated a penchant for bold, often controversial moves, such as recognizing Jerusalem as Israel’s capital and relocating the U.S. embassy there. While these actions were met with international criticism, they also showcased Trump’s willingness to break with convention.

If Trump were to re-enter the fray, he might consider bold diplomatic maneuvers that others have avoided. For example, he could propose a new international conference on the Israel-Palestine conflict, inviting not only the key players but also non-traditional mediators like the Gulf states. This conference could aim to reset the peace process, starting from a position that acknowledges the realities on the ground while offering a framework for a two-state solution that addresses both Israeli security concerns and Palestinian aspirations for statehood.

5. Leveraging U.S. Influence Over Israel

Trump’s close relationship with Israeli leaders, particularly former Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, could be a double-edged sword. On one hand, it gives Trump significant leverage over Israel, potentially allowing him to push for concessions that previous U.S. presidents could not secure. On the other hand, his strong pro-Israel stance has made him a controversial figure among Palestinians.

However, Trump’s willingness to take unconventional approaches might allow him to use this leverage effectively. For instance, he could condition U.S. military aid to Israel on halting settlement expansion in the West Bank, a key issue for the Palestinians. He could also use his influence to push for the easing of restrictions on Gaza, improving humanitarian conditions and reducing the cycle of violence.

6. A New Vision for Peace

Ultimately, for Trump to end the Israel-Palestine conflict, he would need to present a new vision for peace that is appealing to both sides. This vision would need to move beyond the failed frameworks of the past and offer a fresh, realistic approach that considers the current geopolitical landscape.

Trump’s vision could involve a phased approach to peace, starting with immediate confidence-building measures, such as prisoner exchanges, easing of border restrictions, and joint economic projects. This could be followed by more challenging negotiations over core issues like borders, the status of Jerusalem, and the right of return for Palestinian refugees. By breaking down the process into manageable steps, Trump could make progress where others have stalled.

Conclusion: Can Trump Really End the War?

Ending the Israel-Palestine conflict is one of the most daunting challenges in international diplomacy. However, Trump’s unique approach—his willingness to defy convention, his focus on deal-making, and his ability to leverage relationships—gives him a potential edge that others have lacked.

While the obstacles are immense, Trump has shown that he can achieve the unexpected. If he were to apply his trademark style to the Israel-Palestine conflict, there is a possibility—however slim—that he could make significant strides toward ending the war. It would require a mix of bold leadership, economic incentives, and a willingness to push both sides toward compromise.

In the end, peace between Israel and Palestine will require more than just one man’s efforts, but with the right strategy, Trump could play a pivotal role in bringing this long-standing conflict closer to resolution.