US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu unveiled a new plan on 29 September to end the Gaza conflict.
Known as Trump’s 20-point plan, it was developed with input from Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey.
Trump pushed for Israel to halt the war after its airstrike on Doha violated Qatar’s territory in a failed bid to target Hamas negotiators.
With internal political tensions easing, Trump increased pressure on Israel, believing it had achieved its main military goals in Iran, Lebanon, and Gaza.
On 8 October, Trump confirmed that Israel and Hamas had signed the first phase of the deal.
The agreement marks the first step toward a more sustainable peace, though many key issues remain unresolved.
Phase 1: Ceasefire and Humanitarian Relief
The plan demands an immediate ceasefire and the suspension of all military operations, freezing frontlines within Gaza.
Israel must release 1,950 Palestinian prisoners, including 250 serving life sentences, within 72 hours of the truce.
In exchange, Hamas must free all Israeli hostages, both living and deceased, during the same timeframe.
Humanitarian aid deliveries will resume as part of this phase, with international monitors ensuring safe and equal distribution.
The ceasefire aims to stop the fighting quickly and create conditions for more complex negotiations to follow.
Phase 2 and 3: Disarmament, Security, and Governance
Phase 2 will start once all hostages are released and focus on Gaza’s demilitarisation.
Hamas must dismantle tunnels, weapon stockpiles, and other military infrastructure under international supervision.
The plan promises amnesty and safe passage to Hamas members who renounce violence or seek exile.
A multinational stabilisation force from the US, Arab nations, and Europe will maintain security and train Palestinian police.
In Phase 3, a transitional administration of Palestinian technocrats will manage daily governance and oversee reconstruction.
The UN and Red Crescent will direct aid to rebuild homes, infrastructure, and essential services.
Trump’s plan introduces a “Board of Peace,” chaired by him and including Tony Blair, to oversee Gaza’s transition.
The board will guide Gaza toward self-governance while avoiding political partisanship and corruption.
Although the plan refers to a potential Palestinian state, Trump stopped short of promising US recognition.
Netanyahu later confirmed that Israel would reject any full Palestinian statehood under this framework.
