US President Donald Trump has unveiled a 20-point peace proposal designed to end the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas. The deal proposes Gaza without Hamas. The plan requires all hostages, both living and dead, to be returned within 72 hours of a ceasefire.
Key Elements of the Peace Plan
If both sides accept the proposal, Israeli forces will suspend military operations and partially withdraw to facilitate a hostage release. Within three days of Israel’s public acceptance, all hostages must be released. In exchange, Israel will free 250 Palestinian prisoners serving life sentences and 1,700 Gazans detained since October 7, 2023. For each Israeli hostage’s remains, Israel will return 15 Gazan remains.
Conditions for Hamas and the Redevelopment of Gaza
Once hostages are released, Hamas members who agree to peaceful coexistence and surrender arms will receive amnesty. Those wishing to leave Gaza will be granted safe passage. Aid deliveries will resume immediately under United Nations supervision, ensuring supplies reach civilians without interference. Trump’s proposal describes a “New Gaza,” rebuilt for prosperity and peace, and free of military infrastructure.
Transitional Governance and Oversight
The plan envisions Gaza’s governance by a temporary technocratic committee of Palestinians and international experts. This committee will operate under a “Board of Peace,” led by Trump and including international figures such as Tony Blair. Their mandate will cover redevelopment, funding, and setting frameworks until the Palestinian Authority undergoes reforms.
Economic Development and Security Measures
Trump’s vision includes a special economic zone with favorable trade terms and a panel of regional experts overseeing redevelopment. Gaza will undergo full demilitarisation, monitored by independent observers. Regional partners and a US-backed International Stabilisation Force will secure compliance and maintain peace. Importantly, Israel will not annex Gaza but will gradually hand over occupied areas to the stabilisation force.
Path Toward Palestinian Statehood
Although the plan avoids explicit statehood commitments, it outlines conditions for eventual Palestinian self-determination. Once Gaza is redeveloped and the Palestinian Authority is reformed, a credible pathway to statehood may emerge. The United States also pledges to facilitate dialogue between Israel and Palestinians for lasting coexistence.
