On September 29, 2025, US President Donald Trump unveiled a comprehensive 20-point peace plan aimed at ending the two-year-long war between Israel and Hamas in Gaza. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu backed the proposal during his US visit, emphasizing Israel’s dedication to the plan while warning Hamas that rejection could lead to its elimination with US support. The critical question remains whether Hamas will accept the plan, as its refusal could jeopardize hopes of lasting peace.

Trump’s plan calls for an immediate ceasefire, the release of all Israeli hostages within 72 hours, and the liberation of Palestinian prisoners by Israel. The proposal envisions the reconstruction of Gaza through international funding and oversight, with a technocratic Palestinian administration managing daily governance under the supervision of an international peace board chaired by Trump and former British Prime Minister Tony Blair. Additional security measures include border fortification and deployment of an international security force.

While Netanyahu insists Gaza must be free of Hamas rule and weapons, the Palestinian Authority has welcomed the plan, viewing it as a sincere effort to foster peace, promising parliamentary and presidential elections and reforms. Hamas, however, has yet to formally accept the plan, citing concerns that the terms disproportionately favor Israel and involve disarmament without adequate political rights.

The peace plan represents a significant setback for Hamas, effectively stripping them of governing authority and requiring total disarmament. Conversely, it offers Israel a diplomatic means to justify military actions and secure US backing, and provides the Palestinian government an opportunity to govern Gaza and rebuild the region. Thus, the initiative can be seen as a challenge for Hamas but a hopeful prospect for Israel and the Palestinian Authority.

Despite guarded optimism, trust deficits and the asymmetrical nature of the plan raise concerns about its feasibility. The coming weeks will be crucial for determining whether Hamas accepts the peace overture or if hostilities in Gaza persist under international watch