Donald Trump announced yesterday that a significant new peace agreement had been reached with Israel regarding Gaza. This development has raised hopes for the initiation of a fresh era of peace in the Middle East, with a 20-point plan unveiled by the US President and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Nevertheless, the proposal is pending approval from Hamas, as the group has not yet received a written copy of the peace plan. Trump hailed the day as historic for peace, emphasizing the potential for lasting peace in the Middle East. He also cautioned that if Hamas does not accept the US-Israel plan, Netanyahu’s forces would have full support to eliminate the threat posed by Hamas.
The details of the plan have not been fully disclosed, but it is said to involve the establishment of a temporary governing body. Trump is rumored to have assigned himself a leadership role, alongside former British Prime Minister Tony Blair. The plan reportedly allows Palestinians to remain in Gaza if they choose, ensures the provision of aid, and offers amnesty to Hamas fighters while granting safe passage to their leaders.
Among the plan’s demands is the immediate release of the 50 remaining Israeli hostages, although only 20 are believed to still be alive. The conflict in Gaza, which has claimed over 66,000 Palestinian lives since October 2023, was triggered by Hamas attacks that resulted in the death of around 1,200 Israelis and the kidnapping of 251.
Following talks at the White House, Netanyahu praised Trump, calling him the greatest friend Israel has ever had in the White House. Statements from Egypt and the United Arab Emirates leaders expressed support for the plan, stating that it lays the groundwork for achieving enduring peace in the region.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer welcomed the US initiative to end the Gaza conflict, expressing gratitude for Trump’s leadership. Starmer urged all parties to cooperate with the US Administration to finalize the agreement and bring it to fruition. He called on Hamas to accept the plan, cease hostilities, and release all remaining hostages, emphasizing the collective commitment to achieving a sustainable peace for Palestinians and Israelis to coexist safely.