US President Donald Trump Issues Ultimatum to Hamas Over 20-Point Gaza Peace Plan

US President Donald Trump has issued a three to four-day ultimatum to Hamas, urging them to respond to a newly proposed 20-point peace plan aimed at ending the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The announcement came following talks with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Washington.

Framework of the Peace Proposal

The plan calls for an immediate cessation of hostilities once both Israel and Hamas accept the agreement. Key elements include:

• Israeli withdrawal to a predetermined line within Gaza, halting aerial and ground operations.
• Release of all hostages within 72 hours, both living and deceased, in exchange for Palestinian prisoners, including women and children detained since October 7, 2023.
• Establishment of a technocratic Palestinian committee to manage Gaza's day-to-day affairs, overseen by an international "Board of Peace" chaired by Donald Trump. Former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair is named as a board member to coordinate reconstruction and aid.

Disarmament and Governance

The proposal bars Hamas from participating in Gaza's future governance. Fighters who disarm may receive conditional amnesty, while others can opt for safe passage into exile. Oversight of disarmament-including dismantling rockets, tunnels, and workshops-will involve Israel, the US, and regional guarantors, with independent monitors ensuring compliance.

Humanitarian and Economic Measures

Immediate humanitarian aid, including food, medicine, fuel, and reconstruction materials, will be delivered through neutral agencies such as the UN and Red Crescent. In the long term, aid will be linked to Trump's economic development initiative, designed to transform Gaza into a hub for investment and employment.

Israel's Position

Prime Minister Netanyahu has expressed support for the plan but warned that Israel is prepared to continue military operations if Hamas rejects or violates the agreement. Arab mediators, including Egypt and Qatar, are transmitting the plan's details to Hamas negotiators as Trump's deadline is closely monitored by regional capitals.

The peace plan comes at a critical time as tensions remain high in Gaza, with the international community closely watching whether Hamas will accept the terms set forth by the US-led initiative.