Washington/Jerusalem, September 30 (HS): U.S. President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday presented a 20-point proposal to end the Israel–Hamas war and establish transitional governance in Gaza. The plan, released by the White House, aims to halt fighting, secure hostage releases, and launch a major reconstruction effort in the territory.

At a joint press conference, Trump described the agreement as “very close” to completion, while Netanyahu warned that Israel would continue military operations if Hamas refused or violated the deal.

Key Points of the Proposal

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Ceasefire and Withdrawal: Israeli forces would withdraw in stages once conditions are met, including hostage release and verified demilitarization.

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Hostage and Prisoner Exchange: All hostages, alive or deceased, to be released within 72 hours of Israel’s acceptance; Israel would free 250 life-term prisoners and 1,700 Palestinians detained after October 7, 2023.

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Governance: Gaza to be administered by a temporary technocratic Palestinian committee under international oversight from a Board of Peace, chaired by Trump and including former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair.

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Humanitarian Aid and Reconstruction: Immediate entry of aid and large-scale rebuilding of infrastructure, hospitals, bakeries, and utilities.

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Demilitarization: Hamas and other factions required to disarm, with weapons decommissioned under international supervision.

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Security Oversight: Deployment of an International Stabilization Force (ISF) to train Palestinian police, manage borders, and oversee security.

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Economic Development: Establishment of a special economic zone and an international investment program to create jobs and opportunities.

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Future Pathway: A potential roadmap for Palestinian self-determination once reforms are completed and stability is established.

Reactions

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Arab and Islamic States: Egypt, Jordan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Turkey, and Pakistan issued a joint statement welcoming the U.S. initiative and expressing readiness to assist in implementation.

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Hamas: No formal response has been issued. The group has historically rejected demands for total disarmament and exclusion from governance.

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Israel: Netanyahu reiterated that Israel would not halt its campaign unless Hamas complies fully, warning that “this can be done the easy way or the hard way.”

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar