The White House’s New Peace Plan for Gaza

On Monday, the White House unveiled a 20-stage plan aimed at achieving peace in the Gaza Strip. Central to this initiative is the demilitarization of Hamas and the release of hostages still held by the group.

The plan specifically asks Hamas to free all remaining hostages within 72 hours upon acceptance. Concurrently, it lays out a framework for the establishment of Arab authorities that would oversee a gradual Israeli withdrawal from the territory. However, if Hamas refuses to accept this proposal, the U.S. has pledged to support Israel in continuing military operations in Gaza to eliminate Hamas.

This initiative emerged following a violent outbreak on October 7, 2023, when Hamas killed 1,200 individuals and kidnapped hundreds, including American citizens, after months of unsuccessful peace negotiations with Israel.

The plan proposes that, rather than Hamas, a new “International Stabilization Force (ISF)” would temporarily administer Gaza, in collaboration with regional Arab partners. The ISF aims to develop a robust security apparatus capable of governing the area over time, as the proposal indicates that Israel won’t occupy Gaza directly.

The ISF will operate under the oversight of a “Peace Commission,” featuring figures like former Prime Minister Tony Blair and President Donald Trump, who will take a leadership role.

Israel is expected to withdraw its troops following key milestones and after the hostages are released. A small security buffer zone will be created along the border between Gaza and Israel.

At a press conference, President Trump emphasized the necessity of a new international oversight body, suggesting that the plan was not just his own but a joint effort with various leaders, including Trump himself advocating for its importance.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed gratitude to Trump, stating that Israel has never had a more supportive friend in the White House.

Interestingly, the plan does not mandate the exodus of Gazans. Instead, it encourages them to remain, with an emphasis on developing “a better Gaza.” The White House appears optimistic about Hamas accepting the proposal, suggesting they are close to a deal. Trump reiterated, “Now is the time for Hamas to accept the terms of the plan.”

Meanwhile, the Israeli Embassy in the U.S. has not yet issued a response regarding these developments. The White House has yet to comment on Trump’s remarks.