A proposed Middle East peace initiative took center stage in Washington today, even as the U.S. government moved closer to a funding lapse that could disrupt federal operations.
President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu presented a joint framework aimed at resolving the Gaza conflict during a White House appearance where neither leader fielded questions from reporters. The proposal calls for establishing a transitional “Board of Peace” to oversee Gaza’s governance, with both leaders expressing confidence in its potential.
“We are beyond very close to reaching a ceasefire agreement,” Trump stated during the event, with Netanyahu pledging Israeli support for the American-brokered initiative.
While Hamas representatives are reportedly reviewing the proposal, initial reactions from Palestinian officials raised concerns about international involvement, particularly the suggested participation of former British Prime Minister Tony Blair.
Meanwhile, congressional negotiations over government funding reached an impasse, with Vice President JD Vance indicating a shutdown appears increasingly likely. “I think we’re headed to a shutdown,” Vance told reporters, placing responsibility on Democratic lawmakers for the stalemate.
The potential funding lapse carries significant consequences, with airline industry representatives warning of immediate impacts on air travel and training delays for air traffic controllers. Unlike previous shutdowns, this one could involve permanent termination of federal employees rather than temporary furloughs.
In other developments, the Justice Department initiated legal action against Minnesota over its immigration policies, continuing the administration’s challenge to sanctuary jurisdictions. Separately, a major tech company agreed to a multimillion-dollar settlement with the president over account restrictions implemented following the January 6th Capitol breach.
