Context
Former U.S. President Donald Trump unveiled a 20-point “peace plan” for Gaza, claiming it could end the ongoing conflict. While Israel and several Arab states welcomed the plan, it has been criticised for marginalising Palestinian voices and advancing Israeli objectives under the guise of peacebuilding.
Key Highlights of the Plan
- Immediate Ceasefire Clause:
Calls for a ceasefire in exchange for the release of all hostages held by Hamas. - Assurance of Non-Displacement:
States that Palestinians will not be forced to leave Gaza, offering temporary relief to a displaced and war-torn population. - International Governance Structure:
Gaza to be administered by an international governance body led by a “Board of Peace” chaired by Donald Trump, with Palestinians excluded from top decision-making until “reforms of the Palestinian Authority” are completed. - International Stabilisation Force (ISF):
A foreign force would be deployed in Gaza, while Israel would retain a “security perimeter”, effectively maintaining partial control. - Demobilisation of Hamas:
Hamas would have to disband and surrender arms — a condition viewed as unrealistic without parallel political guarantees.
Critical Analysis
- Exclusion of Palestinians:
The most glaring flaw is the absence of Palestinian representation in the negotiation process, undermining legitimacy and sustainability. - Colonial Undertones:
The proposed structure resembles a quasi-protectorate, where Gaza would be governed externally under foreign oversight rather than through local self-determination. - Absence of Statehood Pathway:
The plan does not commit to Palestinian statehood or a two-state solution, the long-standing international framework for peace. - Unclear Implementation:
No clear timeline, monitoring body, or composition of the ISF is defined, making it a symbolic document rather than a viable roadmap. - Political Motive:
Analysts suggest the proposal serves domestic U.S. and Israeli political interests, rather than addressing the root causes of the conflict — occupation, blockade, and disenfranchisement.
Wider Implications
- The plan, if implemented, could entrench Israeli control over Gaza and delay Palestinian sovereignty indefinitely.
- It risks further radicalisation and perpetuates the cycle of violence, as no credible political horizon is offered to Palestinians.
- The absence of enforcement mechanisms or accountability may erode trust among Arab and global partners supporting peace initiatives.