U.S. President Donald Trump on Monday unveiled a sweeping 20-point plan aimed at ending nearly two years of relentless conflict in Gaza, winning broad international support even as uncertainty looms over whether Hamas, the Palestinian Islamist group controlling the enclave, will accept the proposal.
Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu presented the plan at a White House press conference, outlining a framework that includes the immediate release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas, the exchange of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners, complete disarmament of Hamas, a staged withdrawal of Israeli forces and the formation of a technocratic, apolitical Palestinian committee to govern Gaza under the oversight of an international “Board of Peace.”
Trump suggested the panel could be chaired by himself, with former British Prime Minister Tony Blair among potential members, describing it as a supervisory body for Gaza’s administration and reconstruction.
Former British Prime Minister Tony Blair gestures as he speaks during a press conference with Kosovo President, following their meeting, Pristina, Kosovo, June 10, 2024. (AFP Photo)
Netanyahu hailed the plan as a “decisive step” toward ending the war and restoring Israel’s security, emphasizing that under its provisions, Hamas’ military infrastructure would be dismantled and its political authority eliminated. “We are getting all our hostages back,” Netanyahu said.
