The flotilla and Israeli forces are heading ever closer to a confrontation off the coast of Gaza. Israel’s navy is preparing to intercept the activists soon, most likely on Wednesday.

More than 500 Israeli soldiers have survived serious injuries fighting in Gaza, according to the military, thanks largely to lessons learned and advances in medicine.

"It looks like there is a really good chance for peace in the Middle East," the president told NBC News ahead of Monday's meeting. The U.S. plan proposes Hamas release all of the hostages within 48 hours in exchange for a phased withdrawal of Israeli troops,

The White House released a lengthy plan on Monday calling for an immediate cease-fire in Gaza, and laying out plans for the future of the territory. The conditions include many proposals that have long been rejected by Israel and Hamas. Gaza will be a de-radicalized terror-free zone that does not pose a threat to its neighbors.