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Washington — President Donald Trump said Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has agreed to a peace proposal that would lead to the release of hostages and end the conflict in Gaza, provided Hamas also accepts it. “Today is a historic day for peace,” Trump stated on September 29.
The plan calls for an immediate end to the war and pledges the release of hostages within 72 hours if both sides agree. It also includes plans for the redevelopment of Gaza, allowing Palestinians who wish to remain in the country to do so. Hamas fighters would receive amnesty, and there would be temporary governance by a new Palestinian committee under the oversight of a “Board of Peace,” with Trump chairing this board alongside other leaders such as former British Prime Minister Tony Blair.
The plan is contingent on Hamas’s support. If Hamas rejects it, Israel will have full U.S. backing to continue military operations in Gaza. During a meeting, Netanyahu expressed regret over a missile strike in Qatar that killed a Qatari serviceman and violated Qatari sovereignty, promising not to conduct further strikes there.
Netanyahu visited the White House for the fourth time this year to seek support from a key ally amid intense pressure from world leaders to end the conflict. Many western countries have recognized a Palestinian state, angering Netanyahu, who denounced their actions during a fiery United Nations speech that prompted walkouts.
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The U.S. has strongly backed Israel’s response to the October 7 assault but Trump is becoming increasingly frustrated with the ongoing conflict. Special envoy Steve Witkoff and son-in-law Jared Kushner met with Netanyahu on September 27 to finalize the details of the plan.
A key aspect of the plan for Israel involves releasing round 48 hostages believed to still be in Gaza, with around 20 estimated to be alive.
Netanyahu has not ruled out future strikes against Hamas leaders within the nation that is helping negotiate a ceasefire agreement.
