The United States has drafted a 21-point proposal to end the war in Gaza, secure the release of hostages, and outline a path toward Palestinian statehood, according to a document obtained by The Times of Israel.
The plan, presented by US special envoy Steve Witkoff during meetings on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly, calls for Hamas to disarm, Gaza to be de-radicalized, and the territory redeveloped under an interim Palestinian technocratic government overseen by an international body.
Key provisions include:
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Immediate ceasefire and gradual Israeli withdrawal once both sides agree.
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Return of all hostages within 48 hours of Israel’s acceptance.
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Release of Palestinian prisoners after hostages are freed.
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Surge of humanitarian aid under UN and Red Crescent management.
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Safe passage for Hamas members who renounce violence or wish to leave.
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Establishment of a multinational stabilization force and training of a Palestinian police unit.
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Eventual reform of the Palestinian Authority, leading to unified governance of Gaza and the West Bank.
Significantly, the plan encourages Palestinians to remain in Gaza, explicitly rejecting calls for mass relocation. It also opens the door to a “political horizon” for peaceful coexistence and a future Palestinian state once reforms and reconstruction advance.
However, the proposal faces sharp obstacles. Hamas has yet to formally receive the plan, and Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has rejected any two-state solution, likening it to giving “Al-Qaeda a state near New York after 9/11.” Far-right members of his coalition have pushed instead for annexation of West Bank territory.
Former President Donald Trump, who championed the plan, insisted negotiations are ongoing, involving regional partners and even Hamas. “All the countries are involved,” he said, expressing optimism about reaching a breakthrough.
Whether the ambitious proposal gains traction will depend on Hamas’s response, Israel’s willingness to make concessions, and the ability of international partners to guarantee security and reconstruction.
