US President Donald Trump on Monday secured Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s support for a US-sponsored proposal aimed at ending the war in Gaza, even as uncertainty remains over whether Hamas will accept the plan.
Speaking alongside Netanyahu at the White House, Trump described the negotiations as “beyond very close” to reaching an elusive deal. He also warned that Israel would have “full US support” to act should Hamas reject the plan.
US releases 20-point framework
The White House unveiled a comprehensive 20-point framework outlining steps to achieve peace in Gaza. Key components include an immediate ceasefire, the release of hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners, a phased Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, Hamas disarmament, and the formation of a transitional government under international supervision.
Trump expressed gratitude to Netanyahu for endorsing the plan, saying it represented a chance to “bring an end to the death and destruction and begin a new chapter of security, peace, and prosperity for the entire region.” He also issued a cautionary note: “If Hamas rejects the plan, Israel has my full support to defeat Hamas.”
International reactions
France: President Emmanuel Macron welcomed the US initiative, calling it an “important chance to end the war and free hostages.” Macron urged Israel to engage constructively while warning Hamas to release all hostages immediately and comply with the framework.
Italy: Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni described the plan as a “potential breakthrough” that could mark a turning point in Gaza. Meloni emphasised the need for Hamas to release hostages, renounce any role in Gaza’s future, and disarm fully.
Britain: Prime Minister Keir Starmer supported the US-led effort, urging both sides to cooperate. “Hamas should now agree to the plan and end the misery by laying down their arms and releasing all remaining hostages,” he said.
Germany: Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul called the plan a source of hope for Gaza’s hundreds of thousands of suffering residents, highlighting the importance of seizing the opportunity for peace.
Pakistan: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif praised Trump’s 20-point plan, calling it a step toward durable peace. Sharif reiterated support for a two-state solution and expressed confidence in US leadership, including the role of special envoy Steve Witkoff.
EU Council: President Antonio Costa welcomed Netanyahu’s positive response and urged all parties to seize the moment to make peace a reality.
Arab and Muslim countries: Foreign ministers of Saudi Arabia, Jordan, UAE, Indonesia, Pakistan, Turkey, Qatar, and Egypt praised Trump’s leadership and endorsed the proposal. They highlighted key priorities, including unrestricted humanitarian aid, security guarantees, full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, reconstruction of the enclave, and its integration with the West Bank.
Conclusion
While the US plan has gained broad international support, its success hinges on Hamas’ acceptance. The 20-point framework presents a rare diplomatic opportunity to end hostilities, release hostages, and rebuild Gaza, but only time will reveal whether all parties will commit to a lasting peace.