US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu jointly revealed a new peace initiative on 29 September. The 20-point framework, discussed extensively with Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey, seeks to end the prolonged Gaza conflict and reshape regional stability. Trump reportedly acted after an Israeli airstrike in Doha, which violated Qatar’s sovereignty during a failed attempt to target Hamas negotiators.
Officials said this incident prompted Trump to exert stronger pressure on Israel to stop the war. With Israel having already met key objectives in Iran, Lebanon, and Gaza during Trump’s second term, conditions were set for negotiations. On 8 October, Trump confirmed that Israel and Hamas had signed the first phase of the deal, marking a crucial turning point in the two-year conflict.
Ceasefire, Prisoner Exchanges, and Humanitarian Relief
The initial phase enforces an immediate ceasefire, freezing all frontlines and suspending every military operation within 72 hours. Both sides must release detainees — Hamas will free all Israeli hostages, living and deceased, while Israel will release over 1,900 Palestinian prisoners, including 250 serving life sentences.
The plan emphasises restoring humanitarian access to Gaza, ensuring civilians receive medical care, food, and water without obstruction. US and regional observers will monitor these steps to prevent violations. Aid groups, including the UN and the Red Crescent, have been tasked with coordinating relief efforts to guarantee fairness and transparency.
The White House described this stage as a “confidence-building measure” designed to stabilise the region and create momentum for broader reforms. The humanitarian response will also focus on rebuilding hospitals, schools, and public services devastated by the conflict.
Disarmament, Security Control, and Long-Term Governance
The second phase will address demilitarisation and territorial security. It requires Hamas to dismantle tunnels, destroy weapons stockpiles, and surrender offensive capabilities under international supervision. The agreement declares Gaza a “terror-free zone,” promising stability for neighboring states.
Hamas members choosing peace will receive amnesty and safe passage for exile. An international stabilisation force composed of US, Arab, and European troops will monitor compliance and train a Palestinian police force to maintain order.
The final phase focuses on governance and reconstruction. Palestinian technocrats, guided by a new international body called the “Board of Peace,” will manage daily administration and oversee infrastructure recovery. Trump will lead this board, alongside other global figures such as former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair.
Humanitarian organisations will oversee aid distribution, while new programs aim to keep Palestinians in Gaza by supporting local reconstruction efforts. The plan acknowledges the Palestinian right to statehood, though the US has not promised formal recognition. Netanyahu, on 30 September, reaffirmed that a Palestinian state would not emerge under this framework.
The agreement envisions a restructured Gaza — governed by neutral experts, rebuilt through international cooperation, and secured by joint peacekeeping forces — as a first step toward lasting peace between Israel and Palestine.
