After meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday, President Donald J. Trump disclosed a comprehensive proposal to end the conflict in Gaza. The plan outlines measures to establish a “deradicalized terror-free zone” that would no longer threaten neighboring regions, while also prioritizing the redevelopment of Gaza for its people.
Key elements of the plan include:
1. Immediate cessation of hostilities if both parties agree, with Israeli forces withdrawing to prepare for hostage releases and all military operations paused until conditions are met for a staged withdrawal.
2. Hostages to be returned within 72 hours of Israel’s public acceptance of the agreement, followed by the release of detained Gazans and Hamas members who commit to peaceful co-existence.
3. International oversight through a “Board of Peace” led by Trump, with governance of Gaza temporarily managed by a technocratic Palestinian committee under supervision of global experts.
4. Establishment of a special economic zone with favorable trade terms, alongside a temporary international stabilization force to ensure security and facilitate aid distribution.
5. Demilitarization of Gaza, including destruction of infrastructure for tunnels and weapons, and a commitment to peaceful coexistence with neighboring states.
The proposal also envisions the Palestinian Authority eventually assuming control of Gaza, contingent on reforms, while emphasizing an interfaith dialogue to foster tolerance. Trump highlighted that the plan aims to end the war swiftly, secure hostage returns, and create conditions for long-term Israeli security and Palestinian development.
Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu is set to discuss the plan with Trump at the White House, though Hamas faces significant hurdles in accepting terms that would require its disarmament and loss of governance over Gaza.