Liu Zhongmin, a professor at the Middle East Studies Institute of Shanghai International Studies University, commented on the Trump administration’s recently unveiled 20-point peace plan amid the nearing end of the Gaza war.
Speaking to China’s state-run Global Times on Tuesday, Liu described the plan as a comprehensive framework developed through extensive negotiations and compromises. The primary aim of the plan is to prevent the conflict from prolonging further, balancing Israel’s security objectives with elements drawn from Trump’s earlier development proposals for rebuilding Gaza.
According to Liu, the plan largely addresses Israel’s key objectives, including the release of hostages, the disarmament of Hamas, and the demilitarization of Gaza. However, he noted that Israel continues to seek the total elimination of Hamas.
Regarding Gaza’s future political structure, Liu highlighted that the governing body proposed in the US plan resembles the colonial-style administration established by Britain during its Palestine Mandate. This framework, he suggested, may leave Gaza relatively isolated for some time.
The plan has garnered a positive response from Gulf countries as well. Released on Monday, the White House’s 20-point peace plan proposes establishing dialogue between Israel and Palestine. Notably, it states that all Israeli captives would be released within 72 hours of Israel’s acceptance of the plan.
If implemented, the proposal would begin with an immediate cessation of military operations. It also stipulates that existing “battle lines” would be frozen until conditions are met for a phased withdrawal. Hamas is expected to lay down its arms, with its tunnels and weapons production facilities destroyed, according to the BBC.
Additionally, once both sides agree to the proposal, “full aid will be immediately sent into the Gaza Strip,” ensuring urgent humanitarian assistance.
The US plan also outlines Gaza’s future governance, proposing a “technocratic, apolitical Palestinian committee” to temporarily govern the area. This body would operate under the oversight of a new international transitional organization called the Board of Peace, which would be led by former President Donald Trump.
Former British Prime Minister Tony Blair is set to be part of this governing body alongside other leaders yet to be announced. Blair described the plan as “bold and intelligent,” as reported by the BBC.
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