Trump, Netanyahu Discuss Gaza Peace Plan Amid Questions Over Implementation

U.S. President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met at the White House to unveil a proposed 20-point plan aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

The plan focuses on demilitarizing the region, securing the release of Israeli hostages, and establishing a framework for governance, but its feasibility and acceptance remain under scrutiny.

The proposal includes decommissioning Hamas’s military infrastructure, such as tunnels, and deploying an international stabilization force to coordinate security with Israel, Egypt, and reformed Palestinian police units. It also envisions a “board of peace,” involving international figures, to appoint non-partisan Palestinian leadership in Gaza, explicitly excluding Hamas or other groups designated as terrorist organizations by Israel and the U.S. Trump described the plan as a step toward broader Middle East peace, citing potential expansions of the Abraham Accords and cooperation from Arab and Muslim nations.

Netanyahu expressed support, stating, “I support your plan to end the war in Gaza, which achieves our war aims. It will bring back to Israel all our hostages, dismantle Hamas’s military capabilities and its political rule, and ensure that Gaza never again poses a threat to Israel.” He outlined a phased approach, starting with limited Israeli withdrawals and hostage releases within 72 hours, contingent on Hamas’s compliance. Israel would retain security oversight, including a buffer zone around Gaza.

Trump emphasized U.S. support, noting, “If Hamas rejects the deal, which is always possible… you’d have our full backing to do what you would have to do.” He suggested Hamas’s weakened state could facilitate acceptance, stating, “This is a different Hamas than we were dealing with, because I guess over 20,000 have been killed.” Hamas is reportedly reviewing the proposal, but no official response has been issued.

The plan mentions a “credible pathway” to Palestinian statehood, but details on reconstruction, ending the blockade, or a comprehensive ceasefire remain limited. Observers have raised concerns about its practicality. Al Jazeera’s Marwan Bishara described it as a potential “surrender” demand for Hamas, while reporter Tareq Abu Azzoum noted Palestinian worries that the plan’s focus on demilitarization without addressing humanitarian needs could lead to rejection. Analyst Phyllis Bennis highlighted the lack of guarantees for Palestinian rights, suggesting the plan could allow resumed Israeli operations if terms are not met. Sky News’ James Bays pointed to Netanyahu’s historical opposition to Palestinian statehood as a factor fueling doubts about the plan’s intent.

The conflict, now in its second year, has caused significant loss of life and displacement in Gaza. The coming days will clarify whether this proposal gains traction or faces resistance from key stakeholders.