Gaza — The future of the Gaza conflict now hinges on Hamas’s response to a joint peace plan put forward by U.S. President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Released by the White House, the 20-point proposal seeks to end nearly two years of fighting but comes with a stark ultimatum: release all hostages within 72 hours or face intensified Israeli military action with U.S. backing.
Key Provisions of the Peace Proposal
The plan outlines a multi-step framework combining ceasefire terms, prisoner releases, governance changes, and long-term security measures.
- Hostage Release: All remaining Israeli hostages, living or deceased, must be returned within 72 hours of Israel’s acceptance of the deal.
- Prisoner Exchange: In return, Israel would free around 2,000 Palestinian prisoners, including 250 serving life terms.
- Governance Transition: Gaza would be overseen by a technocratic Palestinian committee under the supervision of an international "Board of Peace," chaired by President Trump.
- Security Arrangements: Israeli forces would stage a withdrawal tied to Gaza’s demilitarization but retain a security perimeter until stability is assured.
Netanyahu’s Reservations
While presenting a united front with Washington, Netanyahu later emphasized two points that diverge from the White House’s framing:
- No Palestinian State: Netanyahu reiterated that he does not support the creation of a Palestinian state, despite the U.S. plan’s reference to a potential pathway to self-determination.
- Security Presence: He insisted that the Israeli military would continue operating in much of Gaza for the foreseeable future, contrasting with the plan’s call for international oversight.
International Response
Despite these tensions, global reaction to the initiative has been largely supportive.
- Arab & Muslim Nations: Ministers from Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Qatar, Turkey, and the UAE praised the U.S.-led effort while underscoring the need to address humanitarian concerns and prevent further displacement.
- Western Allies: The UK, France, and Germany endorsed the proposal and urged Hamas to accept quickly to end hostilities.
- Palestinian Authority: The PA welcomed the framework and expressed hope it could pave the way toward a broader peace settlement and eventual two-state solution.
Hamas’s Next Move
Mediators in Doha have delivered the plan to Hamas negotiators, who confirmed they are reviewing it “in good faith.” However, analysts remain skeptical that the group will agree to disarm and relinquish power core demands of the plan.
The coming days will determine whether Gaza moves toward a ceasefire and international stabilization or faces renewed escalation.
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