On September 29, 2025, a glimmer of hope emerged in the ongoing Israeli-Hamas conflict. US President Donald Trump announced a 20-point peace plan for a ceasefire in Gaza, which Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu agreed to. The announcement was made during Netanyahu’s visit to the United States. Both leaders presented the plan at a joint press conference. Trump clarified that if Hamas does not accept the plan, Israel would have the full right to eliminate it, and the US would support this action. The key question now is whether Hamas will accept the plan, as without it, the prospects for lasting peace in Gaza may dim. Trump’s plan includes an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, the release of all hostages, and the formation of an international peace board, which Trump would chair, with former British Prime Minister Tony Blair among its members. Other key points include the release of prisoners by Israel, the reconstruction of Gaza, the deployment of an international security force, strengthened border security, human rights guarantees, and peace talks between Israel and Palestine. Netanyahu has made it clear that Israel will not allow Hamas to govern Gaza under any circumstances. He stated that there would be a peaceful administration in Gaza, all Hamas weapons would be removed, and Israel would gradually withdraw. Hamas has not yet formally accepted or rejected the proposal. They have stated that they have not received a formal proposal and will discuss it with the Palestinian government. Some reports suggest Hamas is considering the proposal positively. However, a senior Hamas official stated that the terms of the proposal favored Israel, and they were not prepared to accept it. The Palestinian government welcomed Trump’s plan, calling it an honest and determined effort, and said they would hold new parliamentary and presidential elections within a year of the end of the war, make changes to the school curriculum, and create a new security force. Trump’s peace proposal presents an opportunity for Israel, as it gives them a chance to legitimize military action in Gaza and weaken Hamas. It also presents an opportunity for the Palestinian government, as it gives them a chance to govern Gaza. However, for Hamas, it is a challenge, as the proposal offers no opportunity for them to govern Gaza and demands they lay down their arms. Therefore, it would be fair to say that Trump’s peace proposal is a major setback for Hamas, while it presents an opportunity for Israel and the Palestinian government.
