Hamas leaders are currently reviewing a new 21-point peace plan for Gaza that has been endorsed by the US and Israel. The plan, believed to be crafted by envoy Steve Witkoff, has received approval from various Middle Eastern countries, including the UK, France, Italy, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Pakistan. Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed support for the initiative, emphasizing the importance of ending the conflict, releasing hostages, and providing urgent humanitarian aid to Gaza.
While there has been no official response from Hamas yet, Palestinian Islamic Jihad leader Ziad Al-Nakhaleh criticized the plan as biased towards Israel, while Israeli politician Bezalel Smotrich labeled it a diplomatic failure. The proposed peace plan entails demilitarizing Gaza, rebuilding the territory, and facilitating the return of hostages and prisoners. It also outlines the establishment of a temporary Palestinian government, economic revitalization, and security measures to ensure peaceful coexistence.
The plan envisions a gradual transition towards Palestinian statehood and calls for international involvement in overseeing Gaza’s development and security. Despite ongoing conflict in Gaza, the potential acceptance of this peace proposal remains uncertain as Hamas continues to deliberate its response.