Trump, Netanyahu agree on proposal to end Gaza war

Guwahati: US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday agreed on a framework to end the war in Gaza. The plan, however, hinges on whether Hamas will accept its terms.

The US President laid out a 20-point proposal to stop the war and establish a transitional administration in the region.

Addressing a White House press conference with Benjamin Netanyahu, Trump said, "I think we are beyond very close. We’re not quite finished. We have to get Hamas."

The proposal however does not call for Palestinians to leave Gaza.

It seeks for the release of all remaining hostages within 72 hours if Hamas agrees to the deal.

It also seeks a phased withdrawal of Israeli forces once the terms are in place. The plan also includes an international "Board of Peace" to monitor compliance.

Trump added Israel would have Washington’s "full backing" if Hamas refused to cooperate. "If Hamas rejects the plan, Israel has my full support to defeat Hamas," he said.

Also Read: Netanyahu dials Qatar PM from White House to apologise over Doha strike

Netanyahu said, "If Hamas rejects your plan, Mr. President, or if they supposedly accept it and then basically do everything to counter it, then Israel will finish the job by itself. This can be done the easy way or it can be done the hard way, but it will be done."

Netanyahu lauded Trump for pushing forward a deal, saying it aligned with Israel’s war goals. "I support your plan to end the war in Gaza, which achieves our war aims. It will bring back to Israel all our hostages, dismantle Hamas military capabilities and its political rule and ensure that Gaza never again poses a threat to Israel," Netanyahu said.

He added that the initiative offered "a practical and realistic path forward for Gaza" that could avoid further bloodshed.