Cairo (AP) — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has backed a U.S. peace plan for Gaza, leaving many to wonder if Hamas will agree. The deal asks Hamas to disarm in return for an end to hostilities, humanitarian aid, and a path to rebuilding. However, Hamas faces a hard choice: accept the terms or risk intensified Israeli military actions.
This plan suggests that Palestinian statehood might be a future possibility but offers no immediate guarantees. In the meantime, Gaza’s more than 2 million residents would be under international oversight with an international security force stepping in as Israeli troops withdraw.
In the proposal revealed by the White House, a critical point is that the Palestinian Authority is expected to govern Gaza eventually. This is contentious for Netanyahu, who doubts this will happen, as Israel firmly opposes the establishment of a Palestinian state.
Key Proposal Elements:
Ceasefire: Proposed hostilities would cease immediately. Hamas must release all hostages within 72 hours. In return, Israel would free 250 Palestinians serving life sentences and hand over the bodies of 15 Palestinians for every hostage returned.
Troop Withdrawal: Israeli forces would leave Gaza only after Hamas disarms. Despite this, Israel plans to keep a security presence, which might anger Hamas.
Postwar Governance: Hamas would not manage Gaza anymore. Its military structure would be dismantled. Those who agree to live peacefully could receive amnesty, while others wishing to leave would be allowed to do so.
International Assistance: Humanitarian aid would flow into Gaza, managed by international organizations like the U.N. and Red Crescent. Concerns about mass expulsion have arose previously, making assurances vital for Palestinians.
Future Oversight: An interim Palestinian administration is planned, overseen by a “Board of Peace,” which would manage reconstruction efforts. Reforming the Palestinian Authority will be necessary for future governance.
Reactions: Responses to the plan are mixed. Hamas is reviewing it, maintaining that it will resist until the Israeli occupation ceases. Arab nations, including Egypt and Jordan, have expressed support, while some hardliners in Netanyahu’s coalition remain skeptical.
The response from experts in the field, such as political analysts, indicates that the success of any plan hinges on genuine collaboration between all parties involved. Recent surveys among Palestinian citizens show a high desire for peace but significant skepticism about whether such plans can lead to real change.
As the situation unfolds, the path forward remains uncertain. The balance of power, regional politics, and the willingness of all sides to compromise will shape the future of Gaza.
For ongoing updates on this topic, check the latest reports from reliable sources.
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