Trump and Netanyahu Announce 20-Point Plan for Gaza Peace

US President Donald Trump said Monday that he and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu are “very, very close” to achieving peace in the Middle East. The announcement came after a joint news conference at the White House, where Trump unveiled a detailed 20-point plan to end Israel’s war on Gaza and secure the release of Israeli captives held in the Palestinian territory.

Trump described the day as “potentially one of the great days ever in civilisation,” adding that the plan goes “much beyond Gaza” and aims for what he called “eternal peace in the Middle East.”

Key Points of Trump’s Peace Plan

Trump outlined major elements of the plan, emphasizing regional cooperation:

• Demilitarisation of Gaza: Arab and Muslim countries, in writing, have committed to dismantling Hamas’s military capabilities and those of other armed groups in Gaza immediately. This includes destroying tunnels, weapons stockpiles, and production facilities.

• Local Police and Governance: Trump proposed that a “technocratic” Palestinian leadership, unaffiliated with any political faction, govern Gaza daily. This leadership will be appointed by a new international oversight body called the “board of peace,” which will include Trump and other global leaders such as former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair.

• Security Arrangements: An international stabilisation force (ISF) will be deployed to oversee Gaza’s security, working with Israel, Egypt, and newly trained Palestinian police. The ISF will provide long-term security after Hamas is demilitarised.

Trump stressed the role of Arab and Muslim nations in managing relations with Hamas, noting that they would take the lead in dealing with the group. “They have to deal with them because they were the one group that we have not dealt with,” he said.

Netanyahu Supports the Plan but Stresses Security

Prime Minister Netanyahu confirmed Israel’s support, stating that the plan meets Israel’s war aims. He said the plan would help bring back all hostages, dismantle Hamas’s military and political power, and ensure Gaza never threatens Israel again.

However, Netanyahu also clarified Israel’s role in long-term security. “Israel will retain security responsibility, including a security perimeter, for the foreseeable future,” he said. He added that Gaza would have a peaceful civilian administration, independent of Hamas or the Palestinian Authority, led by leaders committed to peace.

Hamas Response and Challenges

Trump noted that Hamas has yet to respond to the plan. He described the current Hamas leadership as significantly weakened, with thousands of members killed over recent years. Analysts suggest the plan may be seen by Hamas as an ultimatum to surrender.

Trump addressed Palestinians directly, urging them to take responsibility for their future. “We’re giving them responsibility for their destiny, [to] fully condemn and prohibit terrorism and earn their way to a brighter future,” he said.

Some Palestinians remain sceptical about the plan’s feasibility, particularly regarding demilitarisation and the removal of Hamas. They hope for an end to hostilities, withdrawal of Israeli forces, release of prisoners, and a lasting peace.

US Support if Hamas Rejects the Deal

Trump made it clear that if Hamas rejects the plan, the US would fully back Israel in taking necessary action. “You’d have our full backing to do what you would have to do,” he said.

Analysts noted that the plan effectively gives Israel the green light for intensified action if Hamas does not comply. Netanyahu outlined a phased approach for implementation, linking withdrawals, hostage releases, and international oversight. He warned that if Hamas rejects the plan or obstructs it, Israel would “finish the job” itself.

Trump’s plan awaits Hamas’s acceptance, which will determine whether negotiations can move forward or if further military actions will be necessary. Meanwhile, the international community will monitor the situation closely as the region faces a critical moment in its pursuit of peace.