Jerusalem: After nearly two years of relentless conflict, the Gaza war may be approaching a fragile pause, following U.S. President Donald Trump's intervention with a detailed 20-point peace proposal. Trump's plan, aimed at ending hostilities and facilitating a long-term resolution, has elicited a partial agreement from Hamas to release hostages and engage in negotiations, marking a significant development in a war that has previously defied multiple ceasefire attempts.
Following Trump's call for Israel to halt its bombing campaign, residents of Gaza City reported a noticeable decline in airstrikes after an initial surge. While sporadic Israeli strikes continue, the overall intensity of fighting has diminished, offering rare periods of calm. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has endorsed the first phase of Trump's plan, signaling readiness to implement measures aimed at releasing hostages and reducing hostilities.
Despite these positive signs, critical challenges remain. Hamas has not yet addressed key points, including disarmament and the long-term governance of Gaza. Likewise, Israel's conditions for withdrawal and the scope of Palestinian self-rule remain contentious. Experts, including Oren Setter of Harvard’s Belfer Center, caution that while the engagement with the plan is significant, it represents only the beginning of a complex process rather than a definitive end to the conflict.
Trump's plan stipulates that all hostages, living and deceased, should be released within 72 hours of Israel's public acceptance. However, logistical obstacles particularly in retrieving bodies amid Gaza’s devastation may delay this timeline. Politically, both Israel and Hamas are maneuvering to demonstrate cooperation with the U.S. while safeguarding internal interests. For Netanyahu, aligning with Trump offers strategic leverage with Washington while minimizing concessions to hardline coalition partners.
While hope for peace is rekindled, the path to lasting resolution remains fraught with uncertainty. The coming days will be pivotal in determining whether the Gaza conflict can transition from temporary calm to sustainable peace.