Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has accepted a 20-point peace plan for Gaza proposed by US President Donald Trump, even while publicly rejecting one of its potential long-term outcomes. The plan, which demands the complete surrender of Hamas, has been presented to the militant group with a tight 3-4 day deadline for a response.
President Trump has hailed the agreement as a major breakthrough, citing support from Israel, Arab nations, and other global powers. He has warned Hamas of a “very sad end” should they refuse the terms, stating that Israel would then “do what it needs to do.” This gives Israel tacit US approval for a renewed and intensified military campaign.
The American proposal offers a comprehensive end to the war, including an immediate ceasefire and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza. In return for Hamas disarming and ceding power, all Israeli hostages would be released, hundreds of Palestinian prisoners would be freed, and a massive aid operation would commence to rebuild Gaza and feed its people.
However, a significant point of contention lies in the future of the region. While Trump’s plan reportedly leaves the door open for a future Palestinian state, Prime Minister Netanyahu has been adamant that Israel will not allow for its creation. This contradiction highlights the complex challenges that lie beyond the immediate goal of ending the war.
With the conflict’s death toll in Gaza exceeding 66,000, Hamas is now under immense pressure to accept a deal that would save lives but require its own dissolution. The group has said it is studying the proposal before giving its official reply.