Israel Tightens Grip on Gaza City Amid Trump's Peace Plan Ultimatum
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have tightened their encirclement of Gaza City, with the Israeli government issuing a final warning for residents to leave or risk being deemed 'terrorists'. This escalation coincides with the release of U.S. President Donald Trump's controversial 20-point peace plan, which Hamas has been given 'three or four days' to respond to or face severe consequences.
Background and Context
The Gaza Strip has been a hotbed of tension and conflict for years, with Hamas, the fundamentalist organization in control, and Israel locked in a protracted battle. The escalating hostilities have led to international organizations such as the Red Cross suspending their operations in Gaza City due to the deteriorating conditions.
Trump's peace plan, endorsed by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, calls for a ceasefire, a swap of hostages held by Hamas for Palestinian prisoners held by Israel, a staged Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, and Hamas' disarmament. A transitional government led by an international body would then take over governance in Gaza.
Key Developments
The response to Trump's peace plan has been mixed. While Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey are urging Hamas to agree to the plan, the militant group has called for changes regarding disarmament, exile, and IDF withdrawal. The Qatari PM has stated that the plan still needs 'clarification and discussion'. Meanwhile, the military wing of Hamas reportedly wishes to continue the fight.
The plan has been characterized by some as an 'all-or-nothing' proposal. If Hamas accepts it, hostilities would end immediately, Israeli soldier prisoners would be released within 72 hours, and Palestinian detainees would be released. A temporary government would run Gaza, with no role for Hamas or any resistance faction.
Reactions and Implications
The ultimatum issued by Trump and Netanyahu has raised concerns among human rights organizations. The Euro-Med Human Rights Monitor has documented a policy of extortion by Israeli forces against families in the Gaza Strip, threatening them with mass killing, starvation, and forcible displacement if they do not collaborate with the Israeli army.
In contrast, Trump and Netanyahu see the plan as a historic breakthrough and a new chapter for the Middle East. They argue that it represents a realistic chance for peace, a sentiment echoed by Pope Leo XIV. However, critics argue that the plan is more of a disaster plot than a peace initiative, with the Tehran Times asserting that Israel's military campaigns have failed to deliver a decisive victory.
Current Status
As the deadline for Hamas to respond to the peace plan approaches, the situation remains tense. TASS reports that the IDF is checking the Netzarim checkpoint and has closed the road to Gaza City. The military has also issued its last warning to residents to leave the city. Meanwhile, Hamas is said to need 2-3 days to define its position, leaving the fate of Trump's peace plan and the future of Gaza hanging in the balance.