Introduction by Steve Witkoff
"Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed leaders, and members of the international community, we are gathered here today at a critical juncture in history. The Middle East has seen decades of conflict, shifting alliances, and countless peace efforts—many of which have faltered. Yet today, we have a unique opportunity to reshape the future and take meaningful steps toward a long-lasting resolution. This imaginary conversation is not just another diplomatic meeting; it is a chance to chart a new path for security, stability, and prosperity in the region."
"Under the leadership of President Trump, we have already witnessed historic breakthroughs, from the Abraham Accords to the recent ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas. But as we all know, a ceasefire is only the beginning. The real question is: What comes next? How do we move from temporary truces to a lasting and sustainable peace? And most importantly, how do we ensure that all parties—not just governments, but the people they represent—have a stake in that peace?"
"Today, we have key decision-makers at this table. Prime Minister Netanyahu, whose government has faced immense pressure to balance security with diplomacy. President Mahmoud Abbas, who represents the aspirations of the Palestinian people. Our partners from Saudi Arabia and the broader Arab world, who have a vested interest in regional stability. And even representatives from Hamas, whose role in any future agreement cannot be ignored. Each of you comes here with different perspectives, different priorities—but also with a shared recognition that the current situation is unsustainable."
"We understand that there are deep divisions, long-standing grievances, and justified concerns on all sides. We also acknowledge that trust has been eroded over years of conflict. But what is different today is the willingness to engage, the urgency of the moment, and the recognition that inaction is no longer an option. Whether we are discussing Gaza’s governance, economic recovery, security guarantees, or the broader question of Palestinian statehood—every issue on the table requires leadership, pragmatism, and a commitment to something greater than individual political ambitions."
"The world is watching. The decisions made in this room will have profound consequences, not just for Israelis and Palestinians, but for the entire Middle East. And so, with that in mind, I invite all of you to engage in an open, constructive, and solutions-driven dialogue. President Trump has often said that the toughest deals are the ones most worth making—and I believe that, together, we have the chance to make history. Let’s begin."
Imaginary Roundtable: The Crossroads of Middle East Peace
Location: A high-level peace summit convened by the U.S., with key Israeli, Palestinian, and Arab leaders, moderated by a Rand Corporation analyst. The discussion is tense but productive, as each side grapples with difficult realities while searching for common ground.
Rand Analyst:
“Gentlemen, the world is watching. The Israeli-Palestinian conflict has entered another critical juncture. With recent ceasefires and international pressure mounting, we must ask—where do we go from here? President Trump, you've brokered peace deals before. What is your vision now?”
President Trump:
“Well, first of all, let’s be clear—peace is possible. It’s tough, I know that, but when we brought the Abraham Accords together, people said it couldn’t happen. Now, we’re looking at an even bigger deal—one that could finally stabilize Gaza, the West Bank, and the entire region. My plan is about security, rebuilding, and leadership. But it has to work for everyone.”
Benjamin Netanyahu:
“President Trump, I appreciate your leadership. As we discussed when we met, Israel is committed to security, but we cannot afford to make mistakes. Gaza must never again be a launchpad for terror. We need assurances that any agreement truly neutralizes Hamas.”
Mahmoud Abbas:
"I hear the talk of peace, but let's be honest—the Palestinian people cannot accept a solution where Gaza is taken over by forces that do not represent them. My office has already rejected any Gaza takeover plan that does not respect Palestinian sovereignty. We have been here before—plans that promise a future but ignore the core issue of occupation. How can we talk about peace if Palestinians are not given a real stake in their own governance?"
Diana Buttu (PLO Representative):
"Mahmoud is right. We need real governance, not a dictated plan. That said, I see one possible path forward—if there’s a transitional period where Palestinians are given the ability to elect their own leadership, and if regional partners ensure that Gaza is rebuilt and not just controlled."
Mohammed bin Salman:
“I understand Abbas’ position. Saudi Arabia has been clear—we will not support a deal unless it includes a clear path to Palestinian statehood. But we also recognize the need for stability. A regional coalition, supported by the U.S. and major Arab nations, could provide security while allowing the Palestinian people to rebuild.”
Basem Naim (Hamas Representative):
“Let’s not pretend this is easy. Hamas is not going anywhere overnight. But if there is a genuine plan for reconstruction, and if Israeli aggression stops, then maybe we can discuss ways to end hostilities.”
Dennis Ross (U.S. Diplomat):
"The key issue is trust—and right now, there’s very little. We need confidence-building measures. If Hamas is willing to engage in a structured de-escalation, and if Abbas agrees to internal reforms, then we might be able to bridge the gaps."
Rand Analyst:
"President Trump, given Abbas’ rejection of a Gaza takeover plan, do you see an alternative approach that could work?"
President Trump:
"Look, I get it. Nobody wants to feel like they’re being pushed into a bad deal. So, here’s the new angle:
- Palestinians keep control over their future—but with regional oversight to keep security stable.
- Massive rebuilding effort—we’re talking billions in investments, led by Saudi Arabia, UAE, and others.
- Israel gets security guarantees—no more rockets, no more terror tunnels.
- Palestinian leadership must step up—we need a reliable government in Gaza that’s focused on peace, not war."
Mahmoud Abbas:
“If there is a real commitment to Palestinian statehood and not just a temporary fix, then yes, we are willing to engage in talks. But we will not accept a deal that treats Gaza like an international project instead of part of a unified Palestinian future.”
Benjamin Netanyahu:
“If Hamas disarms and there are real security guarantees, I am open to working with regional partners to stabilize Gaza. But there must be strict oversight.”
Mohammed bin Salman:
“If Israel commits to halting settlement expansion, I believe we can persuade the Arab world to step in and fund Gaza’s reconstruction."
Basem Naim:
“If this is real and not just another political show, Hamas will be willing to engage in a phased ceasefire—but only if Palestinians are given real governance rights.”
Diana Buttu:
"Then let’s make sure the next steps include a clear timeline for elections and rebuilding. No open-ended waiting."
Rand Analyst:
"It seems we are seeing something different today—a willingness to compromise, even if the road ahead remains uncertain. Perhaps, for the first time in decades, we are looking at a framework that balances security, governance, and economic recovery."
President Trump:
“Well, folks, looks like we’re onto something big. This isn’t just talk—this is the beginning of real peace. If we all work together, we’re going to see a historic breakthrough. And I have to say, I like where this is going."
(The room remains tense, but for the first time, there is a sense that a new path forward might just be possible.)
Key Takeaways from the Conversation:
- Tensions Remain, but Compromise is Emerging – Abbas still rejects a forced Gaza takeover, but there is room for negotiation.
- Arab Nations Are Stepping In – Saudi Arabia and others offer to oversee Gaza’s recovery, balancing Israeli security needs and Palestinian self-governance.
- Hamas Signals Willingness for a Ceasefire – If Palestinians gain more self-rule, Hamas may consider a phased disarmament.
- Trump’s Plan Evolves – Instead of taking over Gaza, Trump shifts toward a security-and-rebuilding approach, gaining broader support.
- A Framework for Talks is Emerging – This is not full peace, but it sets the stage for further negotiations.
Short Bios:
Donald Trump – Former U.S. President
As the architect of the Abraham Accords, Trump has sought to reshape Middle East diplomacy through "peace through strength." His leadership remains pivotal in bringing Israel, Arab nations, and Palestinians to the table for a long-term solution.
Benjamin Netanyahu – Prime Minister of Israel
A dominant figure in Israeli politics, Netanyahu has long focused on Israel’s security and counterterrorism policies. While he has historically opposed Palestinian statehood, his close ties with Trump and regional leaders give him a strong role in shaping the peace process.
Mahmoud Abbas – President of the Palestinian Authority (PA)
Leader of the Fatah party and head of the PA, Abbas has pushed for Palestinian sovereignty and international recognition. Though he has rejected Trump’s Gaza plan, he remains a crucial figure in any negotiations concerning Palestinian governance.
Diana Buttu – PLO Representative & Former Legal Advisor
A Palestinian-Canadian lawyer and former advisor to Israeli-Palestinian peace talks, Buttu is a strong advocate for Palestinian rights and self-determination. She often challenges Israeli policies and supports Palestinian governance reform.
Basem Naim – Senior Hamas Official
A political leader within Hamas, Naim has served as the former health minister in Gaza and is a spokesperson for Hamas’ international relations. While Hamas remains militarily opposed to Israel, Naim’s role in diplomacy is growing.
Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) – Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia
The de facto ruler of Saudi Arabia, MBS is a key player in Middle East diplomacy and economic modernization. He has signaled that Saudi-Israel normalization is possible but demands a clear roadmap for Palestinian statehood.
Dennis Ross – Veteran U.S. Diplomat & Middle East Expert
A key negotiator in the Oslo Accords and former advisor to multiple U.S. presidents, Ross has worked on Middle East peace for decades. He brings a realistic and historical perspective on the challenges of diplomacy.
Rand Corporation Analyst – Independent Think Tank Representative
A neutral voice in the conversation, this analyst presents data-driven insights from the Rand Corporation’s report, which compares the Israeli-Palestinian conflict to past peace processes in Northern Ireland and Bosnia.
Steve Witkoff – Trump’s Middle East Envoy
A real estate mogul turned diplomat, Witkoff played a crucial role in Trump’s Middle East peace efforts, including brokering the Israel-Hamas ceasefire. His expertise in deal-making and close ties to Trump position him as a key facilitator in negotiations.
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