Donald Trump presented on Monday a 20-point plan to end the conflict in the Gaza Strip. Accepted by Israel, the text provides for the release of hostages, an immediate ceasefire, the delivery of humanitarian aid and the establishment of a Palestinian committee chaired by the United States. Hamas has not yet responded, while several Arab and Western countries welcome the initiative.
Release of hostages and exchange of prisoners
The plan provides for the release of all Israeli hostages within 72 hours of the agreement, alive or dead. In return, Israel would release 250 prisoners sentenced to life imprisonment and 1,700 Gazans arrested after the 7 October 2023 attack. Hamas members would benefit from an amnesty in exchange for a commitment to lay down their arms and respect peaceful coexistence.
Humanitarian assistance and reconstruction
Washington insists on the distribution of aid by the UN and its agencies, excluding any takeover of Hamas or Israel. The Rafah crossing would be reopened, and a comprehensive economic reconstruction plan launched, financed by international investors. The objective is to rehabilitate vital infrastructure (water, electricity, hospitals) and create jobs for Gazans.
Governance under international supervision
A Palestinian Committee « apolitical », supervised by experts and led by Donald Trump himself with other international leaders, would run Gaza until the end of Palestinian Authority reforms. Hamas would be excluded from political participation.
International reactions
Benyamin Netanyahu officially accepted the agreement, while warning that Israel « finish the work » If Hamas rejects it. France, Egypt, Saudi Arabia and even Russia welcomed the plan. In Doha, Qatar announced further discussions with Hamas in the presence of Turkey. Moscow, for its part, expressed its support hoping for a « peaceful conclusion » the conflict.
For the time being, Hamas' response remains outstanding.
W.A.
