Trump Unveils Gaza Peace Plan; Netanyahu Rejects It

On the night of September 23-24, US President Donald Trump, along with White House special envoy Steve Witkoff, presented the first official American plan to end the Gaza war to the leaders of Arab and Muslim countries. According to sources who attended the meeting, Trump emphasized the urgency of ceasing military operations, stating, "Every day the war continues, Israel becomes more and more isolated in the world."

The document presented by the US administration provides for a multi-stage settlement that includes several key principles. First and foremost, the plan demands the immediate release of all hostages and a stable ceasefire. This is to be followed by a phased withdrawal of Israeli troops from the Gaza Strip.

For post-war governance, it is proposed to create a management mechanism that excludes Hamas's participation, known as the "day after plan." To ensure security, the formation of an international security force with the participation of military personnel from Arab and Muslim countries is envisioned. The reconstruction of the Gaza Strip and the financing of the new government are to be undertaken by Arab countries. The plan also assigns a certain role to the Palestinian Authority. It is noted that many of these points are consistent with provisions previously developed by Trump's son-in-law, Jared Kushner, and former British Prime Minister Tony Blair.

Arab and Muslim leaders have expressed their willingness to support the initiative but have put forward a number of clear conditions. They demand that Israel refrain from annexing territories in Judea and Samaria (the West Bank) or Gaza, not occupy any part of Gaza, and not build new settlements there. In addition, Israel must cease actions that violate the status quo on the Temple Mount and at the Al-Aqsa Mosque and immediately increase humanitarian aid to Gaza. In response, Trump assured that he would not allow Israel to annex the territories of Judea and Samaria.

As a result of the negotiations, Arab leaders expressed hope that a serious plan has been put on the table. Additional discussions to turn the proposed principles into practical steps have already begun as of September 24.

According to Israeli sources, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is familiar with the initiative in general terms. Trump is expected to discuss the plan with Netanyahu at a meeting at the White House on September 29. However, the Israeli Prime Minister has already managed to declare: "The shameful capitulation of some leaders to Palestinian terrorism will in no way bind Israel. A Palestinian state will not be established."