Trump unveils Gaza plan with Netanyahu’s backing; Hamas response uncertain
Trump and Netanyahu present a 20-point U.S. plan calling for a ceasefire, hostage release, and a transitional international authority in Gaza. The proposal envisions a “Board of Peace” chaired by Trump, with Tony Blair among its members, to oversee Gaza’s governance and reconstruction.
President Donald J. Trump unveiled a sweeping peace proposal to end the Gaza war, securing Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s public support but leaving questions over whether Hamas will agree to the terms.
The White House released a 20-point document on Monday outlining an immediate ceasefire, a staged Israeli withdrawal, an exchange of hostages for Palestinian prisoners, and the demilitarization of Gaza. The plan also calls for a new transitional governing body headed by Trump and including former UK prime minister Tony Blair to oversee Gaza’s redevelopment.
“I support your plan to end the war in Gaza, which achieves our war aims,” Netanyahu said at a joint White House press conference. “It will bring back all our hostages, dismantle Hamas’ military capabilities, end its political rule, and ensure that Gaza never again poses a threat to Israel.”
Trump declared the two leaders were “beyond very close” to sealing an elusive peace deal. He warned Hamas that Israel would retain full U.S. backing to act militarily if the group rejected the proposal
Transitional governance and economic provisions
The proposal envisions Gaza being governed temporarily by a technocratic Palestinian committee, supported by international experts, while Hamas would have no role in politics or security .
Oversight would be carried out by an international “Board of Peace” chaired by Trump and including Blair and other heads of state. This body would manage reconstruction funding, coordinate with Gulf donors, and supervise security through a new International Stabilization Force.
Blair, who played a role in shaping parts of the plan, called Trump’s proposal a “bold and intelligent plan.” His involvement has sparked criticism among Palestinians, with Mustafa Barghouti of the Palestinian National Initiative saying, “We’ve been under British colonialism already. He has a negative reputation here. If you mention Tony Blair, the first thing people mention is the Iraq war.”
Under the plan, massive humanitarian aid would flow into Gaza, restoring water, electricity, hospitals, and bakeries. An internationally monitored weapons buy-back and reintegration program would support demilitarization.
The proposal also sets out a Trump-led economic development initiative to transform Gaza, including a special economic zone with preferential trade access. “No one will be forced to leave Gaza,” the plan states, pledging freedom of movement and emphasizing reconstruction over displacement.
Reactions and uncertainty
The Palestinian Authority cautiously welcomed Trump’s “sincere efforts” to end the war, though senior adviser Mahmoud Habbash stressed, “The only side that is able to administer Gaza is a Palestinian government and nothing else.”
Hamas has not formally responded, though Egyptian and Qatari mediators confirmed the group has received the plan and will review it “in good faith.”
Meanwhile, international reactions were mixed. EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen welcomed Trump’s effort, while U.N. experts and rights advocates voiced skepticism, citing Gaza’s humanitarian collapse and accusing Israel of committing atrocities.
“The flow of aid will only matter if there is genuine political change and accountability,” said Francesca Albanese, U.N. special rapporteur for Palestinian territories. “Tony Blair? Hell no. Hands off Palestine.”
