The ongoing conflict between Hamas and Israel, which began on October 7, 2023, may be nearing a turning point with a recent peace proposal. Former President Donald Trump has put forward a comprehensive 20-point plan aimed at fostering peace in Gaza. This deal has been discussed with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who has agreed to its terms.
With the Israeli Prime Minister’s support secured, the focus now is on Hamas’s decision. Key provisions of the deal state that if Hamas accepts the proposal, all hostages will be released within three days. If Hamas rejects the deal, Israel, backed by the United States, will take action.
The 20-point plan involves several key aspects:
1. Gaza is to be transformed into a zone free of terrorist activities, posing no threat to its neighbors.
2. The reconstruction of Gaza will prioritize the betterment of its residents’ lives.
3. Immediate cessation of the war upon the agreement’s acceptance, and withdrawal of Israeli forces.
4. Release of all hostages within 72 hours of Israel’s public approval of the agreement, returning both living and deceased.
5. Release of 250 prisoners serving life sentences and 1,700 Gazans detained after October 7, 2023, following the hostage release. Israel will return the remains of 15 deceased Gazans for each deceased Israeli hostage returned.
6. Amnesty will be given to Hamas members who agree to lay down their arms after the release of the hostages.
7. Immediate delivery of aid to Gaza after the agreement is accepted.
8. Aid will be delivered through the United Nations, the Red Crescent, and other international organizations without any interference.
9. Gaza will be temporarily governed by a non-political Palestinian committee, overseen by the international Board of Peace, headed by Donald Trump and supported by figures like Tony Blair, focusing on reconstruction and finance until the Palestinian Authority assumes control.
10. A specialist panel will be formed for the economic rebuilding of Gaza under an economic development plan.
11. Establishing a special economic zone with favorable trade terms for participating countries.
12. Freedom of movement for residents with no forced displacement; the ability to return if they leave.
13. Hamas and other groups will not be involved in governance. The destruction and prohibition of military infrastructure is planned.
14. Regional partners will ensure compliance with the terms, ensuring no threats.
15. An International Stabilization Force (ISF), led by the US and including Arab and international partners, to be immediately deployed, training and supporting the Palestinian police.
16. Israel will not occupy or annex Gaza; withdrawal of the IDF as the ISF establishes stability.
17. Implementation of aid and other provisions to terror-free areas controlled by the ISF if Hamas rejects the deal.
18. A process for interfaith dialogue will be established.
19. Opening the path to Palestinian statehood with the reconstruction of Gaza and the implementation of the Palestinian Authority’s reform program.
20. The US will initiate dialogue between Israelis and Palestinians for establishing a framework for peace.
