The 21-point US plan to end the Gaza war and establish a Palestinian state

A confidential 21-point document outlines the American plan to end the war in Gaza, while simultaneously paving the way for the creation of a Palestinian state. 

The contents of the plan were recently revealed, bringing a new dimension to discussions about the future of the region.

The plan was drafted by special envoy Steve Witkoff with the assistance of former British Prime Minister Tony Blair and Jared Kushner, and it was presented to a number of Arab and Muslim countries on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly.

As the Israeli newspaper notes, the shift is dramatic, as just in February, President Donald Trump spoke of a possible “transfer” of the two million residents of Gaza. Now the plan explicitly encourages their remaining, the gradual reconstruction of the area, and a future “political solution” with the prospect of statehood.

The basic principles
The plan calls for an immediate ceasefire in exchange for the release of hostages, massive humanitarian aid, a temporary administration by Palestinian technocrats, the complete demilitarisation of the Strip, and the participation of an international stabilisation force. On the horizon is the possibility of recognising a Palestinian state after the reform of the Palestinian Authority.

The proposal also contains “red lines” for the Israeli side: the complete disarmament of Hamas, a zero-role for it in the next administration, demilitarisation, and a deradicalisation process.

Trump himself stated he was optimistic that “intense negotiations have been underway for four days and will continue as long as necessary,” stressing that all countries in the region are participating, and that Israel and Hamas are aware of everything at all levels.

The 21 points of the American plan:
Gaza will become a demilitarised, deradicalised zone, posing no threat to its neighbours.

Reconstruction of Gaza for the benefit of its residents.

Immediate end to the war with a gradual withdrawal of Israeli forces.

Release of all hostages within 48 hours of the agreement being accepted.

Release of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners and the return of Palestinian remains after the hostages are returned.

Amnesty for Hamas members who commit to peaceful coexistence – safe departure for those who wish to leave.

Massive influx of humanitarian aid with at least 600 trucks daily and infrastructure projects.

Distribution of aid by international organisations (UN, Red Crescent), without Israeli or Hamas interference.

Administration by a temporary government of Palestinian technocrats, under international supervision, until the Palestinian Authority’s reform is completed.

An economic reconstruction plan, with experts and investments for new jobs.

Creation of an economic zone with reduced tariffs and special access regulations.

Encouragement of Palestinians to remain in Gaza, with the possibility of return for those who might leave.

No involvement of Hamas in the governance – destruction of offensive infrastructure (tunnels, etc.).

Regional security guarantees to ensure the terms are met and Gaza ceases to be a threat.

An international stabilisation force to oversee security and train a Palestinian police force.

Israeli commitment not to occupy or annex Gaza, with a gradual handover of territories to the international force.

Implementation of the terms, even partially, in areas that will be evacuated, if Hamas rejects the plan.

Israeli commitment not to harm Qatar, with recognition of its role in mediation.

A process of population deradicalisation, with interfaith dialogue to change the narrative.

When reconstruction and the reform of the Palestinian Authority have progressed, a credible path toward a Palestinian state can be implemented.

Establishment of a dialogue between the US, Israel, and Palestinians for a “political horizon” of peaceful coexistence.