Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced he will not travel to Egypt for the 17‑October Gaza peace summit, contradicting earlier reports of his participation.
Call Involving Trump
On Tuesday morning, 13 October, Netanyahu and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el‑Sisi took a telephone call that also included former U.S. President Donald Trump. Trump is said to have played a key role in arranging the first direct conversation between the two leaders since the Gaza conflict began.
Peace Summit on Gaza
The 17 October summit in Sharm el‑Sheikh is set to host around 30 world leaders, including Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and heads of Qatar and Indonesia. Discussions will focus on the 20‑point peace plan proposed by former President Trump, which calls for a halt to hostilities and the rebuilding of “New Gaza.” Both Netanyahu and Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas are slated to attend.
Netanyahu Withdraws Over Jewish Holiday
The Prime Minister’s office confirmed that he will not travel to Egypt because the summit falls during the Jewish holiday of Simchat Torah, which concludes the week‑long Sukkot celebrations. The holiday period is traditionally avoided for official travel, and Netanyahu thanked Trump for his “efforts to broaden the peace circle.”
What Happens in Egypt?
Media reports suggest Netanyahu remains skeptical about any role for the Palestinian Authority in post‑war Gaza administration. Trump, however, has said he does not rule out including the PA as part of a wider regional compromise.
