President Donald Trump announced a significant new peace agreement with Israel regarding Gaza. This development raised hopes for potential progress towards peace in the Middle East. The 20-point plan, jointly unveiled by President Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, awaits approval from Hamas, which has not yet received a formal copy of the proposal.
President Trump hailed the agreement as a historic moment for peace, envisioning lasting peace in the Middle East. However, he issued a warning that if Hamas rejects the plan, Israeli forces would have his full support in dealing with the threat posed by Hamas.
The details of the plan remain undisclosed, but it is said to involve the establishment of a temporary governing body. President Trump is rumored to have designated himself as the head, with former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair also playing a role. Notably, the plan allows Palestinians to remain in Gaza if they choose, promises aid delivery, and offers amnesty to Hamas fighters with safe passage for their leaders.
Additionally, the proposal calls for the immediate release of the remaining 50 Israeli hostages, even though only 20 are believed to be alive. The conflict in Gaza, which began following Hamas attacks in October 2023 resulting in casualties on both sides, has claimed the lives of over 66,000 Palestinians according to Gaza’s health ministry.
After the talks at the White House, Prime Minister Netanyahu expressed gratitude to President Trump, calling him Israel’s greatest ally in the White House. Leaders of Egypt and the United Arab Emirates have voiced support for the plan, stating that it could pave the way for a lasting peace in the region.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer praised the US initiative to end the Gaza conflict, urging all parties to cooperate to finalize the agreement. He called on Hamas to accept the plan, release hostages, and work towards a permanent ceasefire. Starmer emphasized the importance of achieving sustainable peace for Palestinians and Israelis to coexist safely.