Donald Trump’s ambitious 20-point peace initiative to resolve the conflict in Gaza, with promises of “eternal peace” in the Middle East, may face challenges similar to previous failed ceasefire attempts.
Historically, the stumbling block in ceasefire negotiations has been the post-conflict scenario in Gaza, particularly concerning the fate of the war-torn Palestinian territory once Hamas releases Israeli hostages held for nearly two years.
A recent ceasefire, lasting less than six weeks from January to March, collapsed when Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu decided against proceeding with the subsequent stages of the proposed agreement.
The failed ceasefire aimed at Israeli forces withdrawing from Gaza permanently, paving the way for the region’s reconstruction.
However, critical details such as the exact withdrawal locations, oversight of Gaza’s reconstruction, and security arrangements were left ambiguous in the agreement.
‘Board of peace’
Trump’s latest proposal offers detailed plans, including the establishment of a “board of peace,” with Trump serving as chair alongside former British Prime Minister Tony Blair and other world leaders.
Under this plan, Palestinians would engage at a technical level to manage public services, but notably, no role for UN agencies like UNRWA was mentioned, despite their significant pre-war role in Gaza.
Hamas and other militant factions in Gaza must agree to complete disarmament, with no involvement in the region’s governance. Israel is open to allowing former militants who renounce violence to stay in Gaza.
Hamas has been reluctant to meet Israel’s demands, citing concerns that Netanyahu could resume hostilities even after hostage release, as happened in March.
Netanyahu’s stance of continuing military action until Hamas is eradicated raises doubts about the plan’s success, despite the involvement of Trump, Blair, and regional Arab nations in the process.
Challenges ahead
The effectiveness of the plan remains uncertain, as past ceasefire agreements, like the one with Lebanon brokered by the U.S. in late 2024, faced accusations of Israeli violations.
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