Washington, October 4(HS):

The Trump plan for Gaza, presented earlier this week, is a 20-point framework aimed at ending hostilities, securing the release of all hostages, and establishing conditions for a durable peace.

Key elements include:

-Immediate cessation of all military operations

-Phased withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza

-Release of all Israeli hostages held by Hamas in exchange for Palestinian prisoners-Unrestricted humanitarian access and aid delivery to Gaza-Guarantees against the forced displacement of Palestinian residents-A commitment to address Gaza’s post-conflict governance, though specifics remain under negotiation

The plan was delivered with an ultimatum:Hamas had until 6 PM US time on Sunday to accept or face intensified consequences—a deadline the group met by agreeing to core provisions, though questions over governance and Hamas’s future role persist.

International Response

US President Donald Trump hailed the breakthrough as “decisive progress” and personally called on Israel to halt its bombing campaign to enable the safe return of hostages.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised Trump’s leadership, calling the hostage release a “significant step” and reaffirming India’s support for a just and lasting peace. Israel has indicated readiness to implement the initial stages of the plan but emphasized operational vigilance to protect its forces during the transition.

What’s Next?

With Hamas’s conditional acceptance, focus shifts to the mechanics of hostage release, sustaining the ceasefire, and advancing broader negotiations. Outstanding issues—particularly the political future of Gaza—will require further dialogue. The international community, including India, has expressed cautious optimism but recognizes that the path to a comprehensive settlement remains fraught with challenges.

The Bigger Picture

The agreement, if fully realized, would mark the most significant de-escalation in two years of devastating conflict. It also sets a precedent for international mediation in one of the world’s most intractable disputes, with implications for regional stability and global diplomacy.

---------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar