Former US President Donald Trump has proposed a 20-point plan to end the Gaza war. The plan, discussed with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, has received a positive response from the Israeli side. The focus now shifts to Hamas, which must decide whether to accept the deal. If Hamas agrees, the agreement stipulates the release of all hostages within 72 hours. Failure to comply would lead to an Israeli offensive, supported by the United States.
Muslim nations have largely welcomed the deal, with leaders from Saudi Arabia, Jordan, the UAE, Qatar, Indonesia, Turkey, Pakistan, and Egypt expressing support. The plan’s conditions include Hamas fighters relinquishing their weapons and the destruction of Hamas’s tunnels and weapons production facilities. It also explicitly excludes Hamas from any future government role. Fighters who agree to peace and seek forgiveness will be granted amnesty. Following Israel’s withdrawal, borders would be opened to allow humanitarian aid and investment.
The deal involves the release of 20 living hostages and the bodies of two dozen deceased hostages within 72 hours, in exchange for the release of hundreds of Gazan civilians. Netanyahu has conditionally supported the plan, stating that it aligns with Israel’s war objectives, ensures the return of all hostages, dismantles Hamas’s military capabilities, and prevents Gaza from posing a future threat. However, he clarified that Israel would act independently if Hamas rejects the plan. Netanyahu also indicated that Israel would only partially withdraw its forces from Gaza even if Hamas accepts the deal, maintaining a security presence.