The unveiling of Donald Trump’s 20-point peace proposal for Gaza has ignited intense discussion on the prospects of resolving one of the world’s most enduring conflicts. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s acceptance of the plan contrasts sharply with the cautious stance of Hamas, the militant group governing Gaza, which hasn’t formally responded to the initiative.
Speaking at the White House, Trump described the development as “a historic day for peace”, underscoring his administration’s push for a breakthrough in the Israeli-Palestinian stalemate. Netanyahu echoed support, stating, “I support your plan to end the war in Gaza, which achieves our war aims”. Key elements of the proposal include Hamas releasing all Israeli hostages within 72 hours of Israel’s acceptance, in exchange for Israel freeing approximately 250 Palestinian prisoners serving life sentences and 1,700 detainees arrested from Gaza since October 2023.
The plan envisages transforming Gaza into a “deradicalised, terror-free zone” with Hamas excluded from governance, and stipulates an International Stabilization Force backed by Arab and international partners would deploy for security and training Palestinian police. “If accepted by Hamas, this proposal calls for the release of all remaining hostages immediately, in 72 hours… It means the immediate end to the war itself,” Trump declared.
Regional reactions are mixed; Saudi Arabia, Jordan, UAE, Qatar and Egypt have expressed backing for Trump’s efforts, stressing prevention of Palestinian displacement. European leaders like UK’s Keir Starmer and France’s Emmanuel Macron urged Hamas to accept the plan as a basis for peace. “Instead of Hamas leading to our isolation, we turned the tables and isolated Hamas,” Netanyahu remarked.
However, the plan’s future hinges on Hamas’s decision amid ongoing conflict – over 35 killed in recent Israeli strikes – and Gaza’s acute humanitarian crisis. Trump warned Israel would have full US backing if Hamas rejects the deal, with Netanyahu cautioning Israel would “finish the job”. Critics question the proposal’s viability without addressing core issues like Palestinian statehood, a longstanding sticking point.
