Former British PM Tony Blair will attend a White House meeting headed by US President Donald Trump to discuss proposals for post-conflict Gaza. The meeting, confirmed to the BBC, will also feature Jared Kushner, Trump’s son-in-law and former top adviser. The talks are anticipated to center on boosting aid and preparing for government when fighting ceases.
Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff called the plan a “very comprehensive” vision for the “day after” the war, pointing to humanitarian rather than strategic reasons for US action.
Heightening Conflict on the Battlefield
The meeting comes as the Israeli military intensifies operations in Gaza City, warning residents that evacuation is “inevitable.” Witnesses reported Israeli tanks entering the northern Ibad al-Rahman district, destroying homes and forcing residents to flee. Over a million Palestinians remain in the city, with many already displaced due to prior advances.
Israeli officials said that troops targeted a “terrorist cell” and found weapons located storage units in northern Gaza, located as their army maintains operations in Shejaiya, Zeitoun, and Sabra neighborhoods. Spokesman Avichay Adraee emphasized that moving families south would get “the most generous humanitarian aid,” although UN and NGOs have sounded warnings regarding the dangers of massive displacement to congested southern regions.
Diplomatic and Political Pressures
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu plans to take the whole Gaza Strip after breakdowns in ceasefire and hostage talks with Hamas. Domestic and international pressure is growing, including mass protests in Tel Aviv calling for a ceasefire to free hostages. Israel refused the latest regional mediator offer of a 60-day truce and hostage release on some terms and is still holding out for a full-fledged bargain on its own terms.
Trump administration officials, such as Secretary of State Marci Rubio, will also meet with Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar in Washington to strengthen diplomatic efforts. Witkoff estimated that the war might finish in four months, emphasizing the need to prepare post-war government and humanitarian assistance.
Humanitarian Crisis Deepens
The Gaza war, initiated by the Hamas-led assault on southern Israel in October 2023, has taken tens of thousands of lives and displaced the bulk of the population. UN-supported experts say that conditions of famine exist in Gaza City, with more than 90% of buildings damaged or destroyed. Healthcare, water, and sanitation infrastructure have crumbled, fueling the humanitarian crisis as international players strive to map the next stage.
