Trump's 20-Point Gaza Peace Plan: Ceasefire, Hostage Release, and Hamas Disarmament Deadline

The plan calls for a ceasefire, hostage release, disarmament of Hamas and Israel's withdrawal from Gaza

US President Donald Trump has announced that Hamas has three to four days to respond to his comprehensive 20-point peace proposal. The detailed plan outlines a ceasefire, requires Hamas to release hostages within 72 hours, mandates Hamas disarmament, and calls for Israel's phased withdrawal from Gaza. Additionally, the proposal suggests establishing a post-war transitional authority under Trump's leadership.

During a White House press conference, Trump clarified the timeline for Hamas's response to his peace initiative. He emphasized that all other involved parties have already agreed to the terms, stating they are now solely waiting for Hamas's decision. Trump delivered a stark warning about potential consequences, saying, "All of the Arab countries are signed up. The Muslim countries are all signed up. Israel is all signed up. We're just waiting for Hamas, and Hamas is either going to be doing it or not, and if it's not, it's going to be a very sad end."

The Republican president's statements follow his unveiling of the 20-point peace proposal the previous day.

A Palestinian source informed AFP, "Hamas has begun a series of consultations within its political and military leaderships, both inside Palestine and abroad. The discussions could take several days due to the complexities."

When announcing the plan on Monday, Trump characterized it as a "beautiful day -- potentially one of the greatest days ever in civilisation".

During a joint press conference with Trump, Netanyahu expressed support while adding a caveat: "I support your plan to end the war in Gaza, which achieves our war aims. If Hamas rejects your plan, Mr President, or if they supposedly accept it and then basically do everything to counter it, then Israel will finish the job by itself."

The ongoing Gaza conflict began following Hamas's attack on October 7, 2023, which resulted in 1,219 Israeli fatalities.

Israel's military response has devastated much of Gaza and, according to health ministry figures, has caused 66,055 Palestinian deaths.