Trump and Netanyahu Gaza Peace Plan: Hamas Must Decide Soon

President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have jointly presented a new peace plan aimed at ending the long-standing conflict in Gaza, warning Hamas to accept the proposal or face serious consequences. This announcement came after their recent meeting at the White House, where they unveiled a detailed 20-point plan focused on ceasing hostilities, releasing hostages, and establishing a pathway to peace for the region.

The plan proposes an immediate ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, with a countdown of 72 hours for Hamas to release both living Israeli hostages and the remains of those presumed dead. In exchange, Israel would release hundreds of Gazans held in detention. One of the key conditions of the plan is the disarmament of Hamas, including dismantling tunnels and weapon manufacturing facilities within Gaza, along with removing Hamas from any future governance role in the region.

President Trump described the day as "historic for peace" and emphasised that the plan could lead to a better future for Gaza, with aid and reconstruction to follow once the parties agreed. He also mentioned that no Palestinians would be forced to leave Gaza, though those willing to depart would have safe passage and freedom to return. Netanyahu echoed Trump’s stance, warning that if Hamas refuses or sabotages the deal, Israel would "finish the job" alone, indicating renewed military action would follow if necessary.

Hamas, however, has not accepted the plan and remains cautious, with some factions dismissing it as unreasonable, particularly objecting to the demilitarisation demands and exclusion from governance. Islamic Jihad, another militant group, labelled the proposal a trigger for further regional conflict. Despite this, many international players, including the British Prime Minister and several Arab states, have welcomed the plan as a possible breakthrough in pursuing peace.

The peace plan also introduces the concept of a transitional governance structure for Gaza, overseen by an international "Board of Peace" chaired temporarily by President Trump. This body would manage reconstruction efforts and potentially pave the way towards a future Palestinian state after security and governance reforms.

The proposal and the strong rhetoric from Trump and Netanyahu reflect a strategic moment. The leaders aim to end nearly two years of devastating conflict that has resulted in heavy casualties and destruction. The plan is framed as a clear ultimatum to Hamas, blending conditions for peace with the warning of significant consequences if rejected.

The neutrality of this peace initiative stands in its attempt to balance security concerns of Israel with humanitarian and rebuilding needs for Gaza. Nevertheless, its success hinges heavily on Hamas’s acceptance and the complex political dynamics within the region. Should Hamas decline, the threat of escalated conflict remains, carrying the risk of further suffering for civilians on both sides.

In summary, the Trump-Netanyahu Gaza peace plan proposes a ceasefire, hostages release, Hamas disarmament, and an international overseen governance plan aimed at stabilising the region. Yet, its future depends on Hamas’s response, with clear warnings from Israel and the US about continued military action if the plan is rejected. This moment marks a critical juncture for the Middle East, balancing hope for peace with the realities of an entrenched conflict.

Key Points of the Peace Plan

Immediate ceasefire and halt to military operations.
Hamas to release all Israeli hostages (living and deceased) within 72 hours.
Exchange of prisoners: Israel to free hundreds of detained Gazans.
Hamas disarmament and dismantling of tunnels and weapons.
Hamas excluded from Gaza governance; provisional international Board of Peace to oversee administration.
Aid and reconstruction efforts to begin once agreement is in place.
Safe passage offered to Hamas members who choose to leave Gaza.
Conditional pathway towards Palestinian statehood after reforms.

While the plan is welcomed internationally and seen as a viable chance to end conflict, Hamas's rejection of key demands complicates prospects. The warning from Israel to "finish the job" raises concerns about further violence if diplomacy fails, underscoring the high stakes.

The international community remains cautiously optimistic but aware of the complexity in achieving lasting peace. The proposal embodies a rare moment of alignment between the US and Israel with an effort to broker peace, yet the real test lies ahead with Hamas’s decision and broader regional acceptance.

This peace initiative reflects ongoing efforts to balance security, humanitarian needs, and political realities in Gaza, and its outcome will critically influence the future stability of the Middle East.

With inputs from agencies

Image Source: Multiple agencies