On October 7, 2023, the world marked two years since the surprise attack by Hamas that resulted in the deaths and abductions of numerous Israelis, igniting a conflict that has devastated the Gaza Strip. As hopes grow for the imminent release of the remaining Israeli hostages, President Donald J. Trump has introduced a comprehensive peace plan aimed at concluding the war and eliminating Hamas as a governing power in Gaza.
Unveiled in collaboration with Israeli Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu, Trump’s 20-point plan has garnered acceptance from European allies, Arab states, and key Muslim nations such as Indonesia and Pakistan. Following Trump’s assertive warning about a deadline for agreement, Hamas’s hesitant response was interpreted as compliance, leading to a pause in the Israeli offensive in Gaza City.
Path to Peace and Humanitarian Efforts
Central to the plan is the urgent need for the release of all living hostages and the return of deceased individuals, a humanitarian effort that Hamas has resisted for two years. Should Hamas comply, the plan outlines the release of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners from Israeli jails and the provision of aid to Gaza.
The governance of Gaza would shift to a “technocratic, apolitical Palestinian committee,” which would include qualified Palestinians and international experts. This committee would operate under the supervision of a newly proposed international body, the “Board of Peace,” chaired by Trump himself and including former U.K. Prime Minister Tony Blair.
In addition, an International Stabilization Force (ISF) is set to be deployed in Gaza. This force will train local police and draw on the expertise of neighboring countries, particularly Jordan and Egypt, to ensure long-term security in the region.
Reforming Governance and Disbanding Hamas
The Trump plan emphasizes the necessity for the Palestinian Authority to undergo significant reforms to regain its leadership role. Crucially, the document stipulates that Hamas must relinquish any role in Gaza’s governance, stating that “Hamas and other factions agree to not have any role in the governance of Gaza, directly, indirectly, or in any form.” The plan demands the dismantling of Hamas’s military infrastructure, including tunnels and weapon production facilities.
Furthermore, individual Hamas members who commit to peaceful coexistence and disarmament would be granted amnesty, while those opting to leave Gaza would receive safe passage to willing host countries. This strategy aims to eradicate Hamas’s influence and establish a foundation for lasting peace.
The legacy of Hamas has been marked by violence and destruction, impacting both Israelis and Palestinians. With international support for Trump’s initiative, many believe a new chapter could begin, fostering stability and economic development in Gaza.
If successful, this plan could signify the end of Hamas as a political force, opening the door for a peaceful coexistence that has eluded the region for decades. The world awaits the outcomes of this ambitious proposal and its potential to reshape the future of Gaza and its people.
