Proposal aims to reshape governance in Gaza, offering a path toward stability and coexistence.
United States President Donald Trump announced a 20-point plan intended to foster peace in Gaza, describing the day as a “historic day for peace.” The announcement was made during a press conference alongside Israeli President Benjamin Netanyahu, where Trump emphasized that the plan could mark a significant step toward resolving the ongoing conflict in the region.
The proposed framework outlines that Hamas would be excluded from any governance role in Gaza. It also stipulates that Israel will refrain from annexing the territory. If the plan is accepted, Israeli forces would undertake a partial withdrawal from Gaza to facilitate the release of hostages. Within 72 hours of this acceptance, Hamas would be required to return all hostages, regardless of their condition, after which Israel would release 250 Palestinian prisoners serving life sentences, along with 1,700 detained Gaza residents.
The proposal envisions an amnesty for Hamas members who agree to commit to peaceful coexistence and relinquish their arms. For those wishing to exit Gaza, safe passage to other countries will be provided. The White House reiterated that there would be no forced displacement from Gaza and that Israel would not pursue annexation. Instead, Israeli security forces would gradually hand over the territory to a temporary International Stabilisation Force.
Trump’s plan also includes the establishment of a ‘Board of Peace,’ which he would lead, comprising international overseers. Among them is former British Prime Minister Tony Blair, although his specific role has not been detailed. Governance of Gaza would be managed by a temporary, apolitical committee of Palestinians and global experts, functioning under the oversight of the Board of Peace. A crucial requirement of the proposal is the dismantling of all military infrastructure associated with Hamas, including tunnels and arms production facilities.
India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed support for Trump’s announcement, describing it as a “comprehensive plan” that offers a viable pathway to long-term peace and development for both Palestinians and Israelis, as well as for the broader West Asian region. Modi urged all parties to unite behind the initiative to end the conflict and work towards peace.
A joint statement from the foreign ministers of several countries, including Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and the United Arab Emirates, welcomed Trump’s efforts to end the war in Gaza. They highlighted the necessity of U.S. involvement in achieving peace and praised the proposal’s focus on rebuilding Gaza and preventing the displacement of the Palestinian people.
The context of these developments follows an escalation in violence, with Israel’s military offensive in Gaza commencing after Hamas’s incursion in October 2023, which resulted in significant casualties and hostages. The ongoing conflict has led to calls for ceasefire talks, though previous efforts have faced challenges. Meanwhile, humanitarian crises, including famine declarations in northern Gaza, have raised alarms about the situation on the ground, further complicating the peace process.
