US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have announced a new peace plan for Gaza, urging Hamas to accept its terms. The initiative seeks an immediate end to military operations, requiring Hamas to release 20 live Israeli hostages and the remains of over two dozen presumed dead within 72 hours, in exchange for numerous detained Gazans.
A Palestinian source disclosed that the 20-point proposal from the White House emphasizes that Hamas will not have any role in governing Gaza, while leaving possibilities open for a future Palestinian state.
During a joint press conference at the White House, Trump proclaimed that this moment represents a historic day for peace, and indicated that Netanyahu would have the full support of the US to act decisively if Hamas fails to adhere to the plan. Netanyahu asserted that Israel would take necessary actions should Hamas reject the peace proposal.
British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer commended the initiative, calling for collaboration among all parties and expressing hope for the agreement to materialize, pushing Hamas to end violence and release remaining hostages.
The peace plan includes an immediate suspension of military activities and the freezing of existing conflict lines until certain conditions are satisfied. Should Hamas comply with the terms, Israel would reciprocate by releasing hundreds of detained Gazans. Moreover, it suggests that for each Israeli hostage's remains provided, Israel would also return the remains of 15 Gazans.
Additionally, the US proposes establishing a non-political Palestinian committee to oversee Gaza, under a temporary governance supported by an international body led by Trump. Former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair and other leaders will also be involved in the transitional governance efforts. The plan outlines that Hamas must not influence governance in any capacity, emphasizing an economic development strategy to rebuild Gaza.
Recent disclosures indicated that Qatari and Egyptian officials have transmitted the White House's ceasefire plan to Hamas leaders. Although Hamas remains open to any proposal conducive to halting the conflict, they insist any agreement must prioritize Palestinian interests and ensure a full withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza.
As Middle East tensions soar following a series of deadly clashes, this peace proposal represents both a hopeful step towards resolution and a complex negotiation challenge ahead, with Trump's support potentially pivotal in navigating the intricacies of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
