Why in news?
Former U.S. president Donald Trump released a 20‑point proposal aimed at ending the Israel–Hamas war. The plan called for an immediate ceasefire, the release of hostages and the rebuilding of Gaza under an international board of peace. Its publication sparked intense debate about the feasibility of the proposals and their implications for Palestinian statehood.
Background and evolution
Past U.S. administrations have tried to broker peace between Israelis and Palestinians, with varying success. Trump’s own 2020 “Deal of the Century” was criticised for favouring Israeli interests. The 2025 plan is more detailed: it emerged after months of fighting in Gaza that displaced hundreds of thousands and created a humanitarian crisis. The plan promises to dismantle Hamas’s military capacity and to bring new economic opportunities to Palestinians.
Key elements of the plan
- Ceasefire and humanitarian corridors: Both sides would halt hostilities immediately. Safe corridors would allow trapped civilians to receive aid and return home.
- Hostage and prisoner exchange: Hamas would release all civilian hostages within 72 hours. Israel would release an equal number of Palestinian prisoners, prioritising women and minors.
- No forced displacement: Gazans would be guaranteed the right to remain in their homes. There would be safe passage for Hamas fighters who laid down arms, but no role for Hamas in future governance.
- Governance by a Board of Peace: Gaza would be administered by a technocratic board chaired by Trump and former U.K. prime minister Tony Blair, with regional and international representatives. This board would oversee demilitarisation, law enforcement and reconstruction.
- International stabilisation force: Troops from moderate Arab nations, joined by Türkiye and Indonesia, would patrol Gaza during the transition.
- Special economic zone: The plan envisions a free‑trade zone and port to make Gaza a manufacturing and logistics hub, with significant international investment.
- Conditional path to statehood: Palestinian statehood would be considered if Gaza remains demilitarised and democratic institutions take root. Jerusalem’s status would remain negotiable.
Pros, criticisms and the road ahead
Supporters say the proposal attempts to address both humanitarian and security concerns while offering economic incentives. It has been praised for insisting on demilitarisation and for including Arab nations in peacekeeping. However, critics point out that the plan sidelines Palestinian leadership, conditions statehood on external control and places the reconstruction of Gaza under figures seen as controversial in the region. Its success will depend on whether Israel, Hamas and neighbouring countries accept external oversight and whether donors commit to long‑term investment.