US President Donald Trump has introduced a comprehensive “21-point plan” for peace in Gaza during discussions with Arab and Muslim leaders at the UN General Assembly in New York. The proposal aims to establish a permanent ceasefire, secure the release of hostages, facilitate an Israeli withdrawal, and pave the way for reconstruction efforts following nearly two years of intense conflict in Gaza.
The effectiveness of Trump’s plan, which emphasizes the exclusion of Hamas in favor of empowering the Palestinian Authority, remains uncertain. A reliable diplomatic source revealed that the proposal envisions a lasting ceasefire in Gaza, the liberation of captives in the region, Israeli troop withdrawal, and the provision of humanitarian assistance.
While Arab and Muslim leaders expressed support for the plan, they also emphasized the need for Israel to cease military operations in Gaza and refrain from territorial occupation. According to Steve Witkoff, Trump’s Middle East envoy, the United States shared the “Trump 21-point plan for peace in the Mideast and Gaza,” addressing concerns of both Israel and neighboring nations.
Trump emphasized the urgency of ending the conflict during discussions with Arab and Muslim leaders, cautioning that Israel could face increased international isolation if the situation persists. The US proposal advocates for a new governance framework for Gaza that excludes Hamas, with a focus on bolstering the Palestinian Authority to oversee both Gaza and the Israeli-occupied West Bank.
The plan includes provisions for the Palestinian Authority’s involvement, the establishment of a joint security force comprising Palestinians and troops from Arab and Muslim nations, and financial support from regional states for reconstruction and governance in Gaza. Arab and Muslim leaders stressed the importance of preserving the status quo at holy sites in Jerusalem, preventing displacement of Gazans, and avoiding any attempts to occupy Gaza.
Trump assured leaders that he would not permit the annexation of West Bank territories by Israel. In a recent statement, Trump’s envoy expressed optimism about the potential for progress in the near future, following positive discussions at the UN General Assembly. The joint statement from Arab and Islamic nations involved in the meeting emphasized their commitment to collaborating with President Trump to resolve the conflict.
Overall, participants left the meeting feeling hopeful about the proposed plan, with a sense of optimism that a viable solution may be within reach.