Deadline Looms Over Gaza
U.S. President Donald Trump threw down a gauntlet on Tuesday, giving Hamas just 3 64 days to accept a U.S.-backed, 20-point plan aimed at ending the two-year conflict in Gaza. “Hamas is either going to be doing it or not, and if it’s not, it’s going to be a very sad end,” Trump told reporters in Washington.
Inside the 20-Point Proposal
Negotiated by mediators in Qatar and Egypt and endorsed by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, the plan calls for:
- Immediate ceasefire
- Exchange of hostages for Palestinian prisoners
- Phased Israeli withdrawal from Gaza
- Disarmament of Hamas
- Transitional government led by an international body
Hamas wasn’t at the table during negotiations and has long balked at disarmament. Officials close to the group say they will “review it in good faith,” but critics argue the proposal leans heavily toward Israeli demands.
Mediators and Stakeholders
Saudi Arabia, Jordan, United Arab Emirates, Qatar and Egypt have publicly welcomed the initiative. On Tuesday, Türkiye’s head of intelligence plans to join Qatari and Egyptian mediators in Doha—marking a new role in the peace push.
Humanitarian Urgency
The United Nations warns that Gaza remains in dire need of aid. Heavy strikes in the northwest of Deir al-Balah reportedly killed at least 89 people in recent days. Of the 23 UN-run shelters in Gaza City, only 18 are accessible, and only one of five medical points is operational.
“We want the war to end, but we want the occupation army that killed tens of thousands of us to get out,” says Salah Abu Amr, a 60-year-old father of six in Gaza City.
What Comes Next?
With the clock ticking, all eyes are on Hamas’s response. Will the group risk restarting hostilities, or seize a chance for a ceasefire—and relief for millions of civilians?
Stay tuned as the region braces for a critical decision.
Reference(s):
Trump issues deadline on Gaza peace plan, Hamas under pressure
cgtn.com
