Hamas leadership has initiated internal discussions regarding a new 20-point framework for Gaza presented by the United States, as multiple nations expressed support for the initiative aimed at ending nearly two years of conflict.
The proposal outlines specific conditions including the disarmament of Hamas and its exclusion from future political participation in Gaza. It calls for the release of approximately 48 Israeli captives within 72 hours of a truce taking effect, while offering a phased withdrawal of Israeli forces to perimeter buffer zones and a significant increase in humanitarian assistance for Gaza’s 2.3 million residents. In exchange, Israel would release over 1,000 Palestinian detainees, including numerous individuals serving life sentences.
Multiple world powers have endorsed the framework, with European leaders describing it as offering the most viable path toward ending hostilities. Regional powers including Egypt, Qatar, and Jordan have also voiced support, with their backing seen as crucial for influencing Hamas’s decision-making process.
However, initial reactions from Palestinian factions aligned with Hamas indicate significant reservations. Sources close to the organization described the terms as disproportionately favoring Israeli interests and establishing unworkable conditions. Islamic Jihad, a partner organization, condemned the proposal as enabling continued aggression against Palestinians.
Within Israel, the plan received broad media and political support, though far-right coalition members threatened to withdraw from government if military operations cease without achieving what they term “complete victory.” The Israeli prime minister emphasized that military presence would continue across most of Gaza and clarified that establishment of a Palestinian state was not part of negotiations.
Analysts note that Israel appears to be shifting toward viewing regional Arab states as potential partners in conflict resolution, marking a significant strategic evolution.
The proposal envisions placing Gaza under international administration, deploying an international security force, and establishing a supervisory board to oversee reconstruction efforts. Egypt has reportedly been training thousands of Palestinian security personnel for potential deployment.
Meanwhile, military operations continue across Gaza, with recent advances into urban areas resulting in additional casualties. Health authorities report that deaths from hunger and malnutrition have reached 453, including 150 children, with famine conditions declared in parts of the territory last month.
The conflict began with Hamas’s October 2023 assault that resulted in approximately 1,200 Israeli deaths and the capture of more than 250 hostages. Israel’s subsequent military campaign has caused widespread destruction in Gaza, with Palestinian fatalities exceeding 66,000 and injuries affecting more than 160,000 people.
