US Unveils Comprehensive Peace Plan for Gaza Amid Ongoing Conflict

The White House has officially released a long-anticipated peace plan for Gaza, spearheaded by President Donald Trump. The proposal aims to bring an end to the ongoing conflict by ensuring that Israel will not occupy or annex the region. The underlying goal of the plan is to create a “deradicalized zone free from terror” that poses no threat to its neighbors. If both sides accept the proposal, hostilities would cease immediately, marking a significant shift in the current dynamics.

During a press briefing following discussions with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Trump expressed optimism that this agreement could pave the way for “eternal peace in the Middle East.” Netanyahu has already voiced his support for the plan, placing pressure on Hamas to respond.

The peace plan outlines several key points that closely mirror earlier unofficial drafts. Most notably, Gaza is designated as a demilitarized zone, with a focus on rebuilding in favor of its long-suffering population. The agreement stipulates an immediate cessation of hostilities, contingent upon acceptance from both parties.

Should the plan be accepted, Israeli forces will withdraw to a pre-agreed line, facilitating the release of hostages. During this transition period, all military operations, including airstrikes, will be halted, and front lines will remain frozen until conditions allow for a complete and phased withdrawal.

Within 72 hours of Israel’s public acceptance of the proposal, all hostages, both living and deceased, are to be returned. In exchange, Israel has committed to releasing 250 prisoners serving life sentences, as well as 1,700 Palestinians detained after October 7, 2023, which includes women and children. For each Israeli hostage whose remains are returned, Israel will release the remains of 15 Palestinians.

Hamas members who agree to peaceful coexistence and surrender their weapons will be granted amnesty. Those wishing to leave Gaza will have safe passage to countries willing to accept them. Following the agreement, humanitarian aid will be allowed to enter Gaza immediately, adhering to the provisions outlined in the January 19, 2025, aid agreement.

The plan emphasizes the need for infrastructure restoration, including utilities, hospitals, and bakeries, with aid distribution managed by the United Nations and other impartial international organizations. The Rafah crossing will operate under the same mechanisms agreed upon in the January 2025 agreement.

A transitional governance structure will be established in Gaza, led by a technical, apolitical Palestinian committee responsible for the daily functioning of public services. This committee will comprise qualified Palestinians and international experts, operating under the oversight of a new international body dubbed the “Peace Committee,” chaired by Trump, alongside other statesmen, including former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair.

This committee will oversee the framework for funding Gaza’s reconstruction until the Palestinian Authority completes its reform agenda, as stipulated in various proposals, including Trump’s 2020 peace plan and a Saudi-French initiative. The aim is to establish an effective government that caters to the needs of Gaza’s inhabitants while attracting investment.

Additionally, a special economic zone with preferential tariffs will be created to foster economic growth and job creation. Those who wish to remain in Gaza will be encouraged to do so, while others will have the option to leave and return at will.

Hamas and other factions will have no role in Gaza’s governance, neither directly nor indirectly. The plan mandates the destruction of all military and terrorist infrastructure, including tunnels and weapon production facilities, with a demilitarization process supervised by independent observers.

The United States, in collaboration with regional and international partners, plans to establish temporary International Stabilization Forces (ISF) in Gaza. These forces will support vetted Palestinian police in maintaining internal security and will work alongside Jordan and Egypt, which have significant experience in this area. The ISF aims to ensure that arms do not re-enter Gaza while facilitating the swift passage of goods for reconstruction.

As the ISF establishes control, Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) will gradually withdraw, based on agreed milestones and timelines related to demilitarization. This phased approach is designed to ensure that Gaza no longer poses a threat to Israel, Egypt, or their civilian populations.

Should Hamas delay or reject this proposal, the outlined provisions, including expanded humanitarian assistance, will be implemented in areas free from terrorism that are handed over to ISF control.

The peace plan also calls for the establishment of interfaith dialogue aimed at fostering mutual tolerance and coexistence, with the hope of altering perceptions among both Palestinians and Israelis. As reconstruction efforts advance and the Palestinian Authority’s reform agenda is consistently implemented, credible pathways to Palestinian self-determination and statehood may finally emerge—fulfilling the aspirations of the Palestinian people.

The United States will facilitate dialogue between Israel and the Palestinians to negotiate a political vision for peaceful cohabitation, marking a critical step towards stability in the region.