OPINION:
This week, President Trump hosted Qatar’s prime minister, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani, at the White House for what may be one of the most consequential diplomatic meetings of his presidency.
For me, as the father of Itay Chen — an American citizen and one of the 50 hostages still held in Gaza — this moment is deeply personal.
Every day, I hope for the one thing every parent wants: for my family to be whole again. And I believe Mr. Trump has the clarity and moral leadership to make that happen.
This is a pivotal inflection point not only for the Middle East, but for the future of American leadership in the world. Mr. Trump has a rare opportunity to help forge a deal that ends violence, secures the return of the hostages and reshapes the regional order for the better. With Qatar playing a central mediating role between Israel and Hamas, this moment may bring a breakthrough — one that could also unlock lasting economic and strategic benefits for the United States.
History offers a guide. In 1978, President Jimmy Carter invited the leaders of Egypt and Israel to Camp David for high-pressure, private talks. The result was one of the most consequential peace accords of the 20th century, with Carter receiving the Nobel Piece Prize.
Mr. Trump, whose diplomatic style is refreshingly unconventional, should consider his own version — a summit at Mar-a-Lago, shielded from political theater, where Israel, Qatar, Egypt and Saudi Arabia can negotiate seriously. A successful deal — the Mar-a-Lago Accords — could form the basis of a new American-led framework for peace.
Qatar’s role is critical. The emir’s visit shows the window for diplomacy is open, but it won’t stay open long. This is the moment for Mr. Trump to do what he does best: make a deal.
This is not just about ending a war. It’s about unleashing a new era of regional cooperation — normalization with Saudi Arabia, economic ties between Israel and Lebanon and a peace dividend that includes U.S. jobs, investment and energy security.
Challenges remain. Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu faces domestic political constraints. Qatar must press Hamas for meaningful commitments. But Mr. Trump has the relationships, instincts, and leverage to close the deal.
As a father, I ask you to bring them home. As an American, I say: Lead with strength.
Mr. President, the moment is yours.
We — the hostage families — are waiting.
RUBY CHEN
Tel Aviv, Israel
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