President Trump has taken charge of an international “peace committee” aimed at overseeing the governance and reconstruction of the Gaza Strip, part of a 20-point plan released by the White House recently. This plan addresses the ongoing conflict and outlines a pathway toward peace between Israel and Hamas.
In his role as leader of this “interim” agency, Trump will manage the framework and funding needed for Gaza’s redevelopment, until the Palestinian authority, which governs the West Bank, meets the required conditions to assume control over Gaza as Israeli forces gradually reduce their presence there.
The plan emphasizes the need for high international standards to facilitate modern governance that benefits the people of Gaza while encouraging investments.
Included in the initiative is former British Prime Minister Tony Blair, who previously collaborated with Trump’s administration. He played a critical role alongside Jared Kushner, Trump’s son-in-law, focusing on postwar recovery efforts in Gaza now that Hamas is not in control. The Peace Commission’s 20-point strategy includes 9 specific points already established.
Trump described Blair as an easy partner, hinting that more names related to the committee would be revealed soon.
This announcement came just before Trump was set to hold a joint press conference with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House.
The overarching goal of this plan is to establish a credible path toward a Palestinian state, although Netanyahu has previously rejected the idea of such a state. It remains uncertain if he supports other elements of the White House proposals or if they have been discussed with Hamas leaders.
Hamas representative Taher A-Nunu mentioned to Al Araby TV that they had not received the plan and were not involved in its drafting.
The peace plan suggests that if Hamas dismisses the proposals, Israel could proceed with creating a “fearless” area, transitioning from the Israeli Defence Force’s control.
If Hamas agrees to the terms, the organization would need to disarm and relinquish control over Gaza. Members of Hamas committed to peaceful coexistence would receive pardons, allowing them to remain in Gaza or be offered safe passage to another country. Notably, Hamas would not participate in governing Gaza’s future.
The plan also indicates that cooperation from Hamas would lead to a halt in hostilities and a withdrawal based on positions agreed upon by Israel. It states, “The battle line will stay frozen until conditions for a complete, gradual withdrawal are met.”
In a troubling backstory, the agreement is connected to a tragic situation involving 20 hostages taken from Israel on October 7, 2023, which triggered a broader conflict resulting in significant casualties in Gaza.
In return for the hostages, Israel would release 250 individuals serving life sentences, along with 1,700 Gazans detained since the onset of hostilities.
The plan outlines that for each Israeli hostage whose body is returned, Israel would release the remains of 15 deceased Gazans.
Trump asserted that this proposal came “after extensive consultations with friends and partners,” highlighting contributions from various countries. He claimed support for the plan from Jordan, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and others, including countries like Pakistan and Indonesia, which do not recognize Israel.
According to Trump, leaders such as Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif are fully backing this initiative.
The focus for Trump continues to be on formalizing ceasefires and facilitating the release of hostages, particularly as part of broader goals to improve relations between Israel and Saudi Arabia while countering Iran’s influence in the region.
Nevertheless, Saudi Arabia has stated that a resolution to the Gaza conflict and a reliable pathway to Palestinian statehood are essential for Israel’s recognition.
A ceasefire and hostage release would also pave the way for increasing humanitarian aid to the beleaguered Gaza Strip, where international observers have raised alarms about severe hunger, leading to accusations against Israel of genocide.
Significantly, the plan outright rejects the idea of a long-term Israeli occupation in Gaza, affirming that Israel will not annex any territory. The proposal entails that Israel withdraws, given that International Stabilization Forces (ISF) can take over.
The ISF is expected to collaborate with Israel and Egypt to help train a new Palestinian police force.
Palestinian authorities would need to undertake reforms outlined in various proposals, including Trump’s earlier 2020 peace plan and recent suggestions from Saudi Arabia and France.
The plan articulates, “No one is forced to leave Gaza. Those who want to leave can do so and they are free to return. We encourage people to remain and create opportunities for a better Gaza.”
It asserts that if the Palestinian authority meets reform conditions, it could create a credible path to statehood, despite Netanyahu’s refusal to recognize a Palestinian state.
Lastly, the plan aims for the U.S. to facilitate dialogue between Israel and Palestinians to establish a foundation for peaceful coexistence.
In terms of economic incentives, Trump envisions the coastal Gaza Strip as a prime investment opportunity. He previously suggested that the U.S. might even own part of this territory, sharing a vision of transforming it into a beachfront vacation spot.
According to the plan, Trump will establish a special economic zone with preferential tariffs and access, which he plans to negotiate with partner countries.
The “Trump Economic Development Plan” aims to rejuvenate Gaza, with the creation of a team of experts who have been pivotal in developing modern cities in the Middle East.
Trump mentioned that many promising investment ideas have emerged from well-meaning international groups, aimed at integrating security and governance frameworks to attract investments that will generate employment and instill hope for Gaza’s future.
