The talks, involving a group described as Trump’s “Board of Peace,” focused on whether DP World could partner in overseeing logistics for humanitarian aid and commercial goods entering the Gaza Strip, according to the report.

Details of the proposed arrangement, including governance structures or timelines, were not disclosed. Reuters could not independently verify the discussions.

Any such initiative would come amid ongoing international efforts to plan for reconstruction and aid delivery in Gaza, where infrastructure has been severely damaged by conflict.

The focus of the proposed approach is on clearing debris, rebuilding essential infrastructure, and creating a foundation for long-term growth.

The plan is led by a Palestinian civil engineer with prior experience in public planning and development projects.

His background in infrastructure development shapes a vision centered on technical solutions and phased reconstruction.

Large areas of Gaza have suffered extensive physical damage, leaving behind significant volumes of rubble.

Addressing this debris is seen as a critical first step toward rebuilding homes, roads, utilities, and public facilities.

One proposed method involves relocating rubble to designated areas to create usable space and accelerate cleanup.

Similar approaches have been used in the past to support land development and infrastructure foundations.

The immediate priority outlined in the plan is humanitarian relief and temporary shelter solutions.

Providing safe housing, access to basic services, and restoring essential utilities are viewed as urgent needs.

Following emergency relief, attention would shift toward rehabilitating vital infrastructure systems.

This includes electricity networks, water supply, sanitation facilities, and transportation corridors.

Industrial and commercial zones are also part of the longer-term development vision.

Reviving economic activity is considered essential for employment generation and community stability.

The plan emphasizes a phased timeline that balances urgency with practical implementation.

Initial cleanup and stabilization would be followed by structured rebuilding over several years.

Education, healthcare, and public services are highlighted as core components of recovery.

Reconstructing schools, hospitals, and community facilities is seen as vital for social resilience.

Urban planning principles play a central role in the proposed rebuilding strategy.

Thoughtful land use, improved infrastructure layout, and sustainable construction methods are emphasized.

The vision also includes creating opportunities for future growth beyond basic reconstruction.

This involves modernizing infrastructure to support technology, trade, and regional connectivity.

Coordination among technical experts, administrators, and humanitarian organizations is considered crucial.

Effective collaboration can help ensure resources are allocated efficiently and projects move forward smoothly.

Rebuilding efforts are expected to face logistical and operational challenges.

Careful planning, clear prioritization, and transparent management are seen as key to overcoming obstacles.

The approach underscores optimism about Gaza’s potential to recover over time.

With sustained effort, planning, and investment, improved living conditions are viewed as achievable.

Long-term development goals focus on resilience and adaptability.

Infrastructure is envisioned not only to replace what was lost but to support future needs.

Economic revitalization is linked closely with infrastructure recovery.Improved facilities can encourage investment, job creation, and local enterprise growth.

The plan frames reconstruction as a multi-year process rather than a short-term project.

Progress is expected to be gradual, building step by step toward stability and prosperity.

Community involvement is also highlighted as an important element of recovery.

Local participation can help align rebuilding efforts with the needs of residents.

Overall, the rebuilding vision presents a structured pathway toward recovery and renewal.

It centers on technical planning, humanitarian priorities, and a forward-looking development outlook.

The talks come as international attention remains fixed on efforts to support recovery and governance arrangements for Gaza after months of conflict. Diplomatic engagement continues alongside humanitarian concerns.

According to officials familiar with the discussions, the envoy’s visit aimed to exchange views on administrative mechanisms and future cooperation. The emphasis remained on continuity and constructive engagement.

The meeting took place with Hussein al-Sheikh, a leading Palestinian Authority figure involved in civil and diplomatic affairs. Discussions were described as professional and forward-looking.

The Palestinian Authority has long been involved in governance matters in the West Bank and maintains administrative institutions. Its leadership continues to engage with international envoys and partners.

The former U.N. envoy has extensive experience in regional diplomacy and conflict coordination. His background includes years of multilateral engagement.

Sources indicated that the discussions covered the current situation in Gaza and the importance of phased planning. Attention was given to institutional readiness and coordination.

The visit to Ramallah followed earlier meetings held in Jerusalem with Israeli leadership. These engagements were part of routine diplomatic consultations.

Officials said the envoy’s role is expected to involve liaison, coordination, and on-the-ground assessment. No formal announcements were made during the visit.

The Palestinian Authority official later confirmed the meeting through a public statement. He highlighted dialogue and the exchange of perspectives.

While no meeting with the Palestinian Authority president was scheduled, channels of communication remain open. Future engagement may take place as planning progresses.

International actors continue to underline the importance of stability, reconstruction, and civilian welfare in Gaza. Diplomatic coordination is seen as essential.

Observers note that meetings of this nature are common during transitional planning discussions. They are viewed as confidence-building steps.

The broader focus remains on humanitarian relief, reconstruction, and restoring basic services. These priorities are shared by multiple stakeholders.

The envoy’s discussions were framed around cooperation rather than political disagreement. Participants stressed practical considerations.

Officials involved described the meeting as calm and constructive. No points of dispute were highlighted.

Such engagements are expected to continue in the coming weeks. Diplomatic activity in the region remains active.

The situation in Gaza continues to draw international concern and attention. Efforts remain centred on recovery and stability.

His remarks came in response to a question by the show’s host, Zahack Tanvir, who asked whether it would “be really … logical enough” to involve Pakistan in the Gaza Stabilisation Force — and what repercussions might follow.

Meyer’s answer was unequivocal. “I think you have to choose,” he said. “Either Pakistan will be involved or we can have a stabilisation force. The two are not going to happen together.” He added that the same logic applies to any other state — including those like Qatar — that some have proposed might contribute to the force.

“You know, there’s the old expression of inviting the fox into the hen house,” Meyer argued. “Once you have … bad actors … the only result is going to be negative.” He said it “does not take a crystal ball” to see the consequences and described even the possibility of such inclusion as “ludicrous.”

The debate unfolded against the backdrop of recent developments: the ISF has been proposed as part of a broader peace plan aimed at stabilising the Gaza Strip following ongoing conflict. Under that plan, a multinational peacekeeping force would be mandated to help restore security, oversee demilitarisation and facilitate the rebuilding of Gaza.

Countries such as Egypt, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates have been frequently discussed in connection with potential troop contributions — but according to Meyer, inviting Pakistan into the mix would seriously undercut the force’s legitimacy.

Also participating in the podcast discussion were other security and regional-experts: Siddhant Kishore, a national-security analyst based in Washington DC; Yeshaya Rosenman, an India–Israel specialist in Jerusalem; and Irina Tsukerman, attorney and national security analyst. Their collective participation underscored the gravity of the conversation, which framed the ISF not only as a means for peace-building, but also as a test of the international community’s resolve to exclude parties deemed incompatible with such a mission.

Meyer’s intervention resounds especially strongly given the background against which the podcast was framed — a remembrance of the 2008 terror attacks in Mumbai, widely attributed to militants operating out of Pakistan. The episode aimed both to honour the memory of the victims and to raise awareness of what the hosts described as “Pakistan-sponsored terror.”

For the international audience, Meyer’s warning is likely to add weight to ongoing debates over the composition and mandate of the ISF. Critics of including contested actors warn that doing so could undermine both operational discipline and political legitimacy; proponents counter that broad inclusion may be necessary for regional buy-in. With the Gaza conflict continuing to exert global repercussions, the question of who gets to stabilise Gaza remains deeply fraught.

The discussions focused on coordinated efforts to ensure security, governance, reconstruction, and humanitarian aid, emphasizing a shared vision for a stable and prosperous Gaza.

French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot said the Paris meeting provided a platform for countries to outline their contributions and commitments to Gaza’s recovery.

“We discussed the major fields to which we intend to contribute: security, governance, reconstruction, and humanitarian aid,” Barrot told reporters. “These contributions will be shared with the United States so they can be integrated into broader peace efforts.”

The meeting included prominent figures from Europe and the Arab world, such as Qatar’s Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman al-Thani, Egypt’s Foreign Minister, and Turkey’s Foreign Minister, all of whom were instrumental in facilitating the recent ceasefire.

EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas described the gathering as a critical opportunity to build on the ceasefire and move toward lasting peace. “This is the best chance we have right now,” she said. “We must work together to ensure the plan is sustainable for the future.”

A key topic of discussion was the creation of an international stabilisation force, which would operate under a United Nations mandate to monitor the ceasefire, assist in the disarmament of Hamas, and support the transfer of security responsibilities to the Palestinian Authority.

Countries including Indonesia, Italy, and Azerbaijan expressed interest in joining the mission. Italy’s Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani noted, “We want to be major players—not just in security—but also in reconstruction, to help Gaza rebuild for a better tomorrow.”

The discussions also included detailed proposals to train and equip 10,000 Palestinian Authority security personnel in a phased approach. This plan aims to strengthen local governance while providing stability across Gaza.

France and Britain have already initiated talks at the United Nations on a possible mandate for the multinational stabilisation force, reflecting the strong international commitment to a secure and peaceful Gaza.

The United Nations Assembly recently endorsed a declaration outlining steps toward a two-state solution, condemning violence, and urging Hamas to disarm.

European and Arab officials said the Paris meeting was essential to fill gaps in the U.S.-led peace plan and ensure that the ceasefire evolves into a sustainable peace with tangible results on the ground.

Diplomatic sources highlighted that the success of the plan would depend on joint international action, combining efforts in security, reconstruction, and governance.

By leveraging the expertise and resources of multiple countries, the initiative seeks to empower Gaza’s local population, rebuild critical infrastructure, and provide essential humanitarian aid.

The Paris talks reflect a new era of proactive diplomacy, where European and Arab partners work side by side with the United States to support post-war recovery.

The discussions also focused on practical strategies for reconstruction, including restoring essential services, reviving economic activity, and enhancing governance structures to prevent future conflicts.

Officials emphasized that the coordinated plan will prioritize long-term stability and sustainable development in Gaza, ensuring that humanitarian needs are met while creating conditions for economic growth and social cohesion.

By fostering collaboration between multiple countries, the initiative is designed to deliver meaningful and measurable improvements for residents of Gaza.

The commitment to reconstruction also includes financial support, technical assistance, and capacity building to ensure that Gaza can stand on its own in the future.

European and Arab partners are preparing to invest in projects that strengthen local institutions, improve public services, and provide opportunities for education and employment.

The Paris meeting sends a strong signal that the international community is united in its vision for a peaceful, secure, and thriving Gaza.

By combining diplomacy, reconstruction efforts, and security measures, European and Arab nations aim to create a sustainable framework for stability that can endure well beyond the current ceasefire.

With continued collaboration and active engagement from multiple countries, Gaza’s future can be marked by security, prosperity, and hope, demonstrating the power of multilateral diplomacy to transform post-conflict recovery into lasting peace.

The accord would mark a major foreign policy victory for Trump, who has pledged to bring resolution to protracted global conflicts including those in Gaza and Ukraine.

Israeli hostages held in Gaza may be released as early as Saturday under a U.S.-brokered plan aimed at ending the devastating war in the enclave, according to a source familiar with the agreement. The Israeli military is expected to complete the first stage of a partial withdrawal from Gaza within 24 hours of the deal being signed.

The formal signing of the ceasefire agreement, which constitutes the first phase of U.S. President Donald Trump’s peace initiative for Gaza, is scheduled for Thursday at noon Israel time (0900 GMT), the source said.

The deal comes amid cautious optimism and widespread relief across both Israel and the Palestinian territories after Trump announced late Wednesday that Israel and Hamas had reached consensus on a ceasefire and hostage release plan — a move that could mark the most significant diplomatic breakthrough since the war erupted two years ago.

A war that reshaped the Middle East

The conflict, which began following the October 7, 2023 Hamas attacks, has left more than 67,000 people dead in Gaza, according to local authorities, and has drawn in regional actors including Iran, Yemen, and Lebanon.

Israel’s assault flattened much of the coastal strip, while sparking growing global condemnation over what rights experts and a U.N. inquiry have described as possible genocide — an accusation Israel strongly denies, maintaining its operations constitute self-defense.

“Thank God for the ceasefire, the end of bloodshed and killing,” said Abdul Majeed Abd Rabbo, speaking from the southern Gaza city of Khan Younis. “All of Gaza is happy, all Arab people are happy, and the world is happy with the end of the bloodshed.”

Despite the jubilation, analysts warn that the agreement remains fragile, lacking clarity on several core issues including post-war governance of Gaza and the long-term fate of Hamas.

Trump announces breakthrough

“I am very proud to announce that Israel and Hamas have both signed off on the first phase of our Peace Plan,” Trump said on Truth Social. “This means that all of the hostages will be released very soon, and Israel will withdraw their troops to an agreed line as the first steps toward a strong, durable, and everlasting peace.”

If successfully implemented, the accord would mark a major foreign policy victory for Trump, who has pledged to bring resolution to protracted global conflicts including those in Gaza and Ukraine.

“This deal brings us closer than any previous effort to halting a war that has engulfed the region,” a senior Western diplomat involved in the talks told Al Arabiya English on condition of anonymity. “But much will depend on how both sides implement the next steps.”

Netanyahu hails ‘national victory’

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said his government would convene on Thursday to formally approve the plan.

“With the approval of the first phase of the plan, all our hostages will be brought home,” Netanyahu said in a statement. “This is a diplomatic success and a national and moral victory for the State of Israel.”

The conflict, which saw Israel assassinate top leaders of Hamas, Hezbollah, and several Iranian commanders, has redrawn the Middle East’s political landscape. Yet Israel has faced unprecedented global backlash over the scale of civilian casualties and destruction in Gaza.

Under the new accord, Israel is to withdraw troops from specific areas of Gaza while maintaining “security control” along agreed buffer zones. In exchange, Hamas is expected to release all surviving hostages, with their return to begin within 72 hours of the agreement’s ratification.

Hostage release expected within days

Families of hostages gathered in Hostages Square in Tel Aviv to welcome the announcement, many waving Israeli flags and holding photos of their loved ones.

“President Trump, thank you very much,” said Hatan Angrest, whose son Matan is among those still held. “Our children would not be coming home without your help.”

According to a Hamas source, living hostages will be handed over within 72 hours of the deal’s approval, while recovery of the bodies of deceased hostages — believed to number about 28 — “will take longer” due to the extensive destruction in Gaza.

Trump told Fox News’ “Hannity” program that hostages could be released by Monday, adding that coordination was underway with Qatari and Egyptian mediators to oversee the exchange.

Israeli officials say 1,200 people were killed and 251 taken hostage during the Hamas-led cross-border assault in 2023. Of the 48 hostages confirmed to remain in Gaza, around 20 are believed to still be alive.

Hamas confirms deal includes withdrawal, prisoner exchange

Hamas confirmed in a statement that it had agreed to the terms of the ceasefire, which include an Israeli military withdrawal from Gaza and a hostage-prisoner exchange.

“We affirm that the sacrifices of our people will not be in vain,” Hamas said. “We will remain true to our pledge — never abandoning our people’s national rights until freedom, independence, and self-determination are achieved.”

In the southern city of Khan Younis, Palestinian resident Khaled Shaat described the news as “historic.”

“These are long-awaited moments after two years of killing and genocide that were committed against the Palestinian people,” he said.

However, several key aspects of the deal remain unresolved — particularly who will govern Gaza once Israeli troops withdraw and whether Hamas will retain any administrative or security role.

Post-war governance unclear

The next phase of Trump’s 20-point framework envisions the creation of an international oversight body led by the U.S. and including former British Prime Minister Tony Blair to help manage Gaza’s post-war transition. The body would coordinate reconstruction, security, and humanitarian operations during a two-year interim period.

But Hamas has rejected any foreign administration, saying it would only accept a Palestinian technocratic government under the supervision of the Palestinian Authority and backed by Arab and Muslim countries.

“We will not accept foreign rule or trusteeship over Gaza,” a Hamas political official told Al Arabiya English. “Gaza’s future must be decided by Palestinians.”

Arab states insist on path to Palestinian statehood

Several Arab governments that have quietly backed the Trump plan said any long-term settlement must pave the way toward the establishment of an independent Palestinian state.

“Peace will not be sustainable without addressing the core issue — Palestinian sovereignty,” a senior Arab diplomat said. “Any arrangement that ignores this will eventually fail.”

Israeli officials, however, have reiterated that no Palestinian state will be established under Netanyahu’s government. The Israeli leader has repeatedly stated that his priority remains ensuring “complete demilitarization of Gaza” and preventing Hamas or any other armed group from re-emerging.

Economic and regional impact

News of the potential ceasefire triggered a sharp fall in global oil prices, as investors welcomed reduced risk to supply chains amid fears of a wider Middle East escalation. Analysts noted that a sustained truce could ease regional tensions and reopen diplomatic channels between Israel and Arab states that had been strained since the war began.

“This is a significant de-escalation signal,” said an energy strategist in Dubai. “Markets are responding to the likelihood that the most immediate source of instability — the Gaza war — may finally be nearing its end.”

Skepticism remains

Despite the optimism, observers cautioned that previous ceasefire efforts have repeatedly collapsed, often within days of being declared.

“The fact that this deal has been brokered directly through Washington gives it weight,” said a former Israeli intelligence official. “But without guarantees from Egypt and Qatar — and without addressing Hamas’s long-term status — it could unravel quickly.”

Trump and Netanyahu spoke by phone late Wednesday, congratulating each other on what both described as a “historic achievement.” Netanyahu’s office said the Israeli leader had invited Trump to address the Knesset following the official signing ceremony.

For war-weary civilians on both sides, the agreement offers a rare glimmer of hope — though uncertainty lingers over what will follow.

“People in Gaza have lost everything,” said a humanitarian worker in Rafah. “If this ceasefire holds, it will be the first real chance in years for families to rebuild their lives — but peace will need more than a pause in fighting.”

In a joint statement, the foreign ministers of the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Indonesia, Pakistan, Turkey, Qatar and Egypt said they supported steps announced by Hamas, including the release of hostages — alive or deceased — and the group’s readiness to transfer administration of Gaza to a transitional Palestinian committee of independent technocrats.

The ministers also endorsed President Trump’s call on Israel to halt its military campaign and begin implementing an exchange agreement linked to the proposal. They described the US leader’s commitment to peace as “an opportunity to achieve a ceasefire and address the critical conditions facing the people of Gaza”.

The ministers urged the launch of immediate negotiations to agree on practical mechanisms for implementing the plan. They stressed the need for unrestricted humanitarian aid deliveries, the prevention of Palestinian displacement, and guarantees for the security of civilians.

The joint statement also called for the return of the Palestinian Authority to Gaza and efforts to unify governance across Gaza and the West Bank.

The ministers underlined that any agreement must include a security mechanism to protect all sides, ensure a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, and pave the way for reconstruction. They reiterated support for a “just peace” based on the two-state solution.

The statement marks a rare moment of regional alignment on Gaza’s future, though much depends on whether the proposal gains traction with Israel and key international stakeholders.