Trump's Proposed Gaza Peace Plan: Hamas Given Ultimatum Amid International Pressure
In an unprecedented development, US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have issued an ultimatum to the Islamic Resistance Movement (Hamas), offering a 20-point peace plan to end the Gaza conflict or face consequences. Trump has given Hamas a deadline of three or four days
to respond to the proposal, with Netanyahu warning that Israel will finish the job
if the plan is rejected.
The Peace Proposal
Trump's proposal to terminate the nearly two-year-long Gaza war includes the annihilation of all offensive weapons of Hamas and amnesty for fighters who commit to peaceful coexistence. The 21-point plan also includes the immediate cessation of all military operations, a freeze of fighting lines in place, the release of all prisoners within 48 hours, and the return of all hostages, living and dead, within 72 hours. Additionally, safe passage to other countries would be facilitated for Hamas members who opt to leave.
Under the proposed plan, Gaza would be demilitarized and governed by a transitional 'technocratic' committee, and Israel would not annex or occupy Gaza. The proposal also envisions Gaza as a deradicalized, terror-free zone
with the rehabilitation of hospitals, water supply, electricity, bakeries, and public infrastructure.
International Reaction and Pressure on Hamas
The proposal has been hailed as a 'turning point' for the region by Europe, with France, Italy, and the UK urging Hamas to accept the proposal and lay down their weapons. Arab nations have also expressed their support for the plan, with Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey reportedly urging Hamas to accept it. The Secretary-General of the United Nations, Antonio Guterres, has called on all parties to accept the ceasefire plan.
Hamas's Response and Israel's Stance
Despite the pressure, Hamas has dismissed reports of new ceasefire proposals, stating that negotiations have been suspended since an assassination attempt against its leadership earlier this month. Hamas is currently reviewing the proposal and has initiated consultations with its political and military leaders.
Israel's stance remains firm, with Netanyahu asserting that the army will remain in a large part of the Gaza Strip. Israel's UN Ambassador Danny Danon has warned that Israel will continue its operations in Gaza if Hamas rejects the peace plan, adding that the return of captives cannot wait.
Conclusion
As the deadline approaches, the world watches closely to see whether Hamas will accept the peace proposal or face potential military consequences. While the plan has been welcomed by many international leaders, the reaction from Palestinians remains skeptical, with some dismissing the proposal as unrealistic.
The situation remains tense as Hamas deliberates its decision.