The White House announced a comprehensive 20-point plan on Monday, put forth by President Donald Trump, aimed at concluding the ongoing conflict in Gaza between Israel and Hamas. The announcement came just moments before President Trump began addressing the public regarding this proposal, which has yet to receive approval from Hamas. Accompanying Trump was Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who expressed his support for the plan.
During his address, Trump indicated that both Israel and several other nations had accepted the outline of the proposal. He emphasized a critical aspect of the plan: the immediate release of all remaining hostages by Hamas, with a maximum timeframe of 72 hours for compliance. This provision mandates that both living and deceased hostages be returned to their families. "I hope that we're going to have a deal for peace," Trump remarked. "If Hamas rejects the deal, which is always possible, they're the only one left." He reassured Netanyahu that if the plan were to be rejected, Israel would have the full backing of the United States to take necessary actions.
The proposal outlines a vision for Gaza to be governed by a temporary transitional governance structure, led by a technocratic and apolitical Palestinian committee. This committee will be responsible for managing public services and municipal operations in Gaza. A significant part of the plan involves the redevelopment of Gaza to benefit its residents, focusing on eradicating conditions that have perpetuated suffering.
If both sides agree to the terms, the plan stipulates an immediate cessation of hostilities, with Israeli forces withdrawing to a predetermined line to facilitate the hostage release. Trump stated that once hostages are returned, Hamas members who commit to peaceful coexistence and disarmament would receive amnesty. Additionally, those Hamas members wishing to exit Gaza will be granted safe passage to receiving countries.
Upon acceptance of the agreement, substantial humanitarian aid will be dispatched to Gaza. This aid will align with the provisions of a prior agreement made on January 19, 2025, targeting vital infrastructure such as water, electricity, and healthcare. The plan emphasizes that aid distribution will occur without interference from either party, facilitated through the United Nations and other international organizations.
The redevelopment initiative for Gaza will be overseen by a newly established Board of Peace, chaired by President Trump, along with international experts. This board aims to create a governance framework that attracts investment and fosters economic growth within Gaza. The proposal includes establishing a special economic zone to incentivize participation from neighboring countries and international partners.
A crucial part of the plan involves the complete demilitarization of Gaza, ensuring that all military infrastructure, including tunnels and weapon production facilities, are dismantled. An independent monitoring process will verify compliance with this disarmament, supported by international funding for a buy-back program. The newly formed governance structure in Gaza will be responsible for ensuring that the region poses no threat to its neighbors.
The proposal also discusses the establishment of an International Stabilization Force (ISF) to maintain security in Gaza, collaborating with local Palestinian police forces and consulting with regional allies such as Jordan and Egypt. The ISF will focus on preventing the influx of weapons while facilitating the flow of goods necessary for rebuilding efforts.
As the plan unfolds, it emphasizes the establishment of an interfaith dialogue process aimed at fostering tolerance and peace between Palestinians and Israelis. This initiative seeks to reshape narratives and mindsets, highlighting the advantages of a peaceful coexistence.
Trump's proposal not only aims to end the immediate conflict but also paves the way for a credible pathway toward Palestinian self-determination and statehood, aligning with the aspirations of the Palestinian people. The United States is committed to facilitating dialogue between Israel and Palestinian representatives to outline a political horizon for lasting peace and prosperity.
