Hamas and several other Palestinian factions are reportedly leaning towards accepting President Trump's plan aimed at ending the ongoing conflict in Gaza. According to a source close to the mediation process, the factions are expected to present their response to Egyptian and Qatari mediators on Wednesday, as reported by CBS News.
The plan, unveiled by President Trump alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House on Monday, consists of a comprehensive 20-point proposal. If accepted, this initiative would lead to a rapid ceasefire in Gaza, the release of all remaining hostages, and the potential release of various Palestinian prisoners currently held in Israel. Furthermore, it aims to increase the flow of humanitarian aid to the region and transition control over Gaza to an interim administration of Palestinian technocrats, supervised by an international Board of Peace chaired by President Trump, with former British Prime Minister Tony Blair also included on the board.
Under the proposed plan, Israel would continue to maintain security control along the perimeter of Gaza, ensuring a buffer during the transition period. A diplomatic source familiar with the discussions indicated that Hamas representatives were provided with a copy of the proposal by an Egyptian official and the Qatari prime minister.
The Palestinian Authority (PA), which has partial administrative control over parts of the Israeli-occupied West Bank, has voiced its support for Trump's proposal. A statement released by the PA through the WAFA news agency emphasized the significant role of the United States in fostering peace in the region. They reaffirmed their commitment to essential reforms, including holding upcoming Presidential and Parliamentary elections within a year after the conclusion of the war.
The PA's statement highlighted their aspiration for a modern, democratic, and non-militarized Palestinian state that prioritizes pluralism and the peaceful transition of power. Although Trump's proposal does not grant the PA an immediate role in post-war Gaza governance, it suggests that the organization could reclaim control once it implements necessary reforms.
Leaders from several Muslim-majority nations, particularly key players in the Middle East, have expressed their support for Trump's peace initiative. Countries including Jordan, the United Arab Emirates, Indonesia, Pakistan, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar jointly welcomed Trump's efforts to end the war in Gaza. They expressed confidence in his ability to facilitate a path to lasting peace.
The joint statement emphasized the importance of partnership with the United States in achieving stability in the region. It recognized Trump's commitment to preventing the annexation of the West Bank and highlighted his proposal as a means to rebuild Gaza while safeguarding the rights of the Palestinian people.
Antonio Costa, the President of the European Council, expressed optimism regarding Prime Minister Netanyahu's positive reception of the U.S. proposal, urging all parties to seize this opportunity to pave the way for peace. Additionally, the U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, stated that any initiative leading to a ceasefire, the release of hostages, and a reduction of violence is welcomed, as it could ultimately provide a pathway to peace.
This developing situation underscores the complexities surrounding the Gaza conflict and the various international efforts being made to establish a lasting resolution. As the parties involved consider Trump's proposal, the world watches closely, hoping for a significant step towards peace in the region.
