Donald Trump announced yesterday that a significant new peace agreement for Gaza has been reached with Israel. This development has raised hopes for a potential start to a new era of peace in the Middle East as the US President, and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu unveiled a comprehensive 20-point plan.
Despite the announcement, the proposal is pending approval by Hamas, which has stated they have not received a written copy of the peace plan. Trump emphasized the historic nature of the day, referring to it as a monumental step towards eternal peace in the Middle East. However, he also issued a warning that if Hamas does not agree to the US-Israel plan, Netanyahu’s forces would have full support to eliminate the Hamas threat.
The details of the plan are yet to be fully disclosed, but it is said to include the establishment of a temporary governing body. Trump is reportedly set to lead this board, with former British Prime Minister Tony Blair also expected to play a role. The plan is believed to allow Palestinians to remain in Gaza if they choose, provide aid, grant amnesty to Hamas fighters, and ensure safe passage for their leaders.
Furthermore, the proposal calls for the immediate release of the remaining 50 Israeli hostages, with reports suggesting that only 20 are still alive. Gaza’s health ministry has reported that over 66,000 Palestinians have lost their lives since October 2023, following the conflict triggered by Hamas attacks which resulted in the deaths of around 1,200 Israelis and the abduction of 251.
Following discussions at the White House, Netanyahu praised Trump, calling him Israel’s strongest ally in the White House. Statements from leaders of Egypt and the United Arab Emirates express support for the plan, highlighting its potential to pave the way for lasting peace in the region.
In response to the initiative, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer welcomed the US efforts to end the Gaza conflict, release hostages, and provide humanitarian aid promptly. Starmer urged all parties to collaborate with the US to finalize the agreement and urged Hamas to accept the plan, cease hostilities, and release all remaining hostages. The collective goal remains to establish a permanent ceasefire and achieve sustainable peace for both Palestinians and Israelis.
