US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have unveiled a new 20-point plan aimed at ending the ongoing war in Gaza. While both leaders express optimism, the acceptance of this proposal by Hamas remains uncertain. The announcement was made during a news conference on October 23, 2023, at the White House, where Trump emphasized the need for immediate action.
The proposed plan envisions the establishment of a temporary governing board led by Trump, which would include former British Prime Minister Tony Blair. Importantly, it does not require the evacuation of people from Gaza, stipulating that hostilities should cease immediately upon acceptance by both parties. Additionally, it calls for the release of all remaining hostages within 72 hours of Israel agreeing to the terms.
Trump reassured Israel of the United States’ “full backing” to take necessary measures against Hamas should they refuse the peace deal. “I think we are beyond very close,” Trump remarked, stressing the urgency of the situation. He indicated that the elimination of Hamas is still a priority.
Netanyahu echoed Trump’s sentiments, asserting that if Hamas does not accept the plan or undermines it, Israel would take unilateral action. “This can be done the easy way or it can be done the hard way, but it will be done,” he declared.
Apology to Qatar and Regional Dynamics
During the same discussions, Netanyahu extended a formal apology to Qatar’s Prime Minister, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, for an Israeli military strike that unintentionally killed a Qatari serviceman. This incident drew sharp criticism from several Arab nations and marked a rare moment of discontent from the US regarding Israeli actions. The White House described the exchange between the two leaders as a “heart-to-heart” call.
The backdrop for these discussions is increasingly complex. Israel finds itself facing growing isolation and a loss of support from traditional allies. Domestically, Netanyahu’s governing coalition appears to be fragile, while the Biden administration shows signs of impatience regarding the ongoing conflict. The critical question now is whether Trump, who has consistently supported Netanyahu, will shift his approach and pressure Israel to de-escalate.
At the White House, when asked about the likelihood of a deal being reached soon, Trump responded affirmatively. “I am. I’m very confident,” he stated, highlighting his belief in a resolution.
Currently, Hamas is believed to be holding 48 hostages, with Israeli officials estimating that 20 of them are still alive. The militant group has signaled that any permanent ceasefire would require Israel to withdraw from Gaza, complicating the peace process further.
International Engagement and Future Implications
Trump has engaged with Arab and Islamic leaders to discuss the US plan during the recent U.N. General Assembly. Notably, his latest proposal does not include the earlier suggestion of expelling Palestinians from Gaza, which he had previously endorsed.
A Hamas official confirmed that the group had been briefed on the plan but noted that no official offer had yet been made through Egyptian and Qatari mediators. The organization has repeatedly stated that it will not disarm unless there is progress toward establishing an independent Palestinian state.
As the situation evolves, the international community watches closely, with many hoping for a peaceful resolution to a conflict that has caused immense suffering for civilians in Gaza. The success of Trump’s peace proposal hinges not only on the acceptance of both parties but also on the broader geopolitical dynamics in the region.
