US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu unveiled a 20-point plan on September 29 to end the Gaza conflict.
Trump developed the proposal with input from Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey, aiming to end years of bloodshed and restore stability.
The plan followed Israel’s airstrike on Doha, which violated Qatar’s airspace during a failed attempt to kill Hamas negotiators.
Freed from earlier political constraints, Trump pressured Israel to accept the deal after claiming victory in Iran, Lebanon, and Gaza.
On October 8, Trump confirmed that Israel and Hamas had signed the first phase of the agreement.
Phase 1: Ceasefire and Humanitarian Relief
The plan’s first phase demands an immediate halt to hostilities, freezing all frontlines within Gaza.
Both sides must release all hostages within 72 hours, including deceased Israeli captives.
Israel must also release 1,950 Palestinian prisoners — 250 serving life sentences and 1,700 detained during the war.
This phase prioritises humanitarian aid, restoring water, food, and medical supplies to civilians in Gaza.
Trump said the ceasefire would “open the door to lasting peace” if both parties honor the terms.
Phase 2 and 3: Security, Governance, and Reconstruction
Phase 2 will focus on disarmament and long-term security.
Hamas must surrender heavy weapons, destroy tunnels, and dismantle its military infrastructure.
The plan offers amnesty to members who disarm peacefully and safe passage for those choosing exile.
A joint US-Arab-European force will oversee stability and train a new Palestinian police unit.
Phase 3 introduces a transitional Palestinian administration led by technocrats and supervised by an international “Board of Peace.”
The United Nations and Red Crescent will manage aid to ensure fair distribution and transparency.
The plan envisions Gaza as a “terror-free zone” and promotes rebuilding through local employment and international investment.
While the agreement recognises Palestinians’ right to statehood, Trump’s administration stops short of recognising a Palestinian state.
Netanyahu stated the same day that “no Palestinian state will emerge under this plan,” confirming Israel’s position.
