In a high-stakes White House event on Monday, U.S. President Donald Trump announced that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has accepted a 20-point U.S.-drafted proposal aimed at ending the nearly two-year war in Gaza. Standing side by side, Trump praised Netanyahu’s agreement and urged Hamas to back the plan—warning the U.S. would offer "full backing" to Israel if the group rejects it.
The proposal calls for:
- Immediate ceasefire
- Release of hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners
- Phased Israeli withdrawal from Gaza
- Disarmament of Hamas
- Formation of a transitional government overseen by an international "board of peace"
According to Israeli figures, Hamas still holds 48 hostages, with 20 believed alive. The plan envisions all captives freed within 72 hours of agreement, in return for hundreds of Palestinian detainees.
Netanyahu, on his fourth Washington visit since January, said the deal achieves our war aims by securing hostages’ return, dismantling Hamas’ military capacity and protecting Israel from future threats. He did, however, voice concerns over any role for the Palestinian Authority without radical and genuine transformation.
Hamas has yet to formally respond. Officials in Qatar and Egypt—key mediators—have received the proposal and say Hamas will review it in good faith. Qatar, despite recent tensions over an air strike in Doha, reaffirmed its commitment to mediation after Netanyahu issued an apology.
European leaders largely welcomed the plan. French President Emmanuel Macron called it a solid basis for action. Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni described it as a potential turning point. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer urged Hamas to lay down arms, while German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul said the plan offers a unique opportunity to end the terrible war.
Now, all eyes turn to Hamas. If they accept, the plan could usher in one of the most significant ceasefires in the region’s recent history. If they don’t, the U.S. has promised unwavering support for Israel, signaling a tense next chapter in this long-standing conflict.
Reference(s):
Trump says Israel accepts plan to end Gaza war, urges Hamas to follow
cgtn.com
