US Unveils 21-Point Peace Plan for Gaza, Proposing Israeli Withdrawal and Hamas Disarmament

US Proposes Comprehensive Gaza Peace Framework

The United States has unveiled a comprehensive 21-point peace plan aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The proposal, put forth by the Trump administration, was shared with several Arab and Muslim countries during meetings on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York in late September 2025. US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff confirmed the presentation of the plan, stating it addresses concerns from both Israel and regional neighbors.

The initiative seeks an immediate cessation of hostilities and outlines a roadmap for the future governance and reconstruction of the Gaza Strip. Key elements include provisions for Israel's withdrawal, the disarmament of Hamas, and the release of all remaining hostages.

Core Tenets: Ceasefire, Hostage Release, and Disarmament

Central to the plan is an immediate end to the war, with hostilities ceasing and Israel suspending military operations. A critical first step mandates the unconditional release of all hostages held by Hamas within 48 hours of the agreement's acceptance. Following this, Israel would release a significant number of Palestinian prisoners, including 250 individuals serving life sentences and 1,700 Gazans detained after October 7. For every Israeli hostage whose remains are released, Israel would release the remains of 15 deceased Gazans.

The plan explicitly calls for the complete disarmament of Hamas, stipulating that all of the group's offensive weaponry must be destroyed. Hamas will have 'no role in Gaza's governance whatsoever,' and all offensive military infrastructure, including tunnels, will be dismantled. Militants who commit to 'peaceful co-existence' would be offered amnesty, while those choosing to leave the region would be provided safe passage to other countries.

Post-Conflict Governance, Security, and Reconstruction

Regarding Israel's presence, the plan outlines a gradual withdrawal of Israeli forces from the Gaza Strip, with a commitment that Israel will not occupy or annex the territory. The United States has also pledged to prevent Israel from annexing the West Bank.

A temporary, transitional government composed of Palestinian technocrats would administer Gaza, responsible for providing day-to-day services. This body would be supervised by a new international entity established by the US in consultation with Arab and European partners. To ensure security, a temporary international stabilization force, involving the US, Arab, and other international partners, would deploy immediately to oversee security and train a Palestinian police force for long-term internal security.

The proposal also emphasizes humanitarian aid and reconstruction, with aid surging into Gaza at rates no lower than 600 trucks per day, alongside infrastructure rehabilitation. An economic zone will be established, and Gazans will be encouraged to remain in the Strip, with assurances that no one will be forced to leave.

Reactions and Future Outlook

While the US administration is optimistic about the plan, neither Israel nor Hamas has formally accepted the proposal. US President Donald Trump is expected to discuss the plan further with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during an upcoming meeting at the White House. Netanyahu has publicly expressed strong opposition to the creation of a Palestinian state, a concept that some interpretations of the plan suggest a pathway towards.