US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have announced a new peace plan for Gaza, warning Hamas of the consequences should they reject it.
The proposed plan includes an immediate cessation of military operations, with Hamas required to release twenty living Israeli hostages and the remains of deceased hostages within 72 hours. In return, Israel will release hundreds of Gazan detainees.
A Palestinian source involved in ceasefire negotiations indicated that Hamas has received the White House's 20-point proposal, which stipulates that Hamas must not play any role in governing Gaza, while leaving open the possibility for a future Palestinian state.
During the conference at the White House, Trump referred to the day as a historic day for peace but cautioned that the US would support Israel if Hamas does not comply with the plan. Netanyahu echoed this sentiment, stating Israel would finish the job should Hamas reject the agreements.
UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer praised the initiative, urging all parties to collaborate with US Administration to move towards realization of the agreement. The peace plan also calls for the freezing of current battle lines until both sides meet specific conditions.
The plan outlines measures to dismantle Hamas's military capabilities and establish a 'technocratic, apolitical Palestinian committee' to temporarily govern Gaza, overseen by an international body led by Trump and including other notable international leaders. Following initial releases of hostages, the plan promises a swift flow of humanitarian aid into Gaza.
As the violence escalates, with over 66,000 reported casualties resulting from ongoing military actions, the urgency for a resolution becomes apparent. The war in Gaza erupted after a Hamas-led attack on Israel, prompting a significant Israeli military response.
Despite these developments, a senior Hamas official indicated that the group remains open to proposals that ensure Palestinian interests but insists that the issue of arms may only be addressed within a broader political context aimed at establishing an independent Palestinian state.
The announcement of the plan happens against a backdrop of rising tensions, as Netanyahu recently condemned the recognition of a Palestinian state by several Western nations, describing it as a mark of shame. As international scrutiny and humanitarian crises mount, all eyes are on the potential effectiveness of this newly proposed peace plan.
