U.S. President Donald Trump’s delayed arrival at the summit he organized in Egypt allowed Prime Minister Mark Carney and other leaders to engage in discussions about the future of Gaza and broader peace prospects in the Middle East. The gathering in Sharm el-Sheikh witnessed Trump signing a declaration with the leaders of Turkey, Qatar, and Egypt, emphasizing lasting peace and prosperity in the region. However, Trump’s extended visit to Jerusalem and his speech at the Israeli Knesset, where he envisioned a “new dawn for the Middle East,” caused him to keep his counterparts waiting.
During the wait, Carney and other leaders found themselves in the same room at the Sharm el-Sheikh International Convention Centre, leading to an impromptu meeting where they openly discussed ways their nations could provide assistance. French President Emmanuel Macron proposed backing an international stabilization force for Gaza, a pivotal element of Trump’s 20-point plan for the region. Carney stressed the urgency of delivering additional aid promptly to Gaza, mentioning that Canada has resources prepared for deployment.
The leaders emphasized the immediate necessity of delivering humanitarian aid to Gaza and implementing visible changes on the ground for Palestinians. Unlike typical international summits where gradual progress is often discussed, this gathering focused on urgent action plans. Despite concerns about Trump’s bold rhetoric and behavior, there was a consensus among leaders that his involvement was crucial for motivating Israeli actions. Leaders acknowledged the need to keep Trump engaged in the Middle East peace process, considering it a critical mission.
The international summit in Sharm el-Sheikh saw the participation of nearly thirty countries from Europe and the Middle East. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declined attendance, citing proximity to a Jewish holiday. Following the summit, Carney expressed optimism on social media, highlighting the event as a significant step towards peace and security in the Middle East, with a focus on swiftly delivering life-saving aid to the region.
The recent conflict initiated when Hamas launched a surprise assault on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, resulting in numerous casualties and hostages. Since then, the Gaza Strip has witnessed extensive destruction, with a high number of Palestinian casualties, including children. The ongoing crisis has led to the displacement of around 90% of Gaza’s two million inhabitants.
