Palestinians slam Trump’s proposal, call it meaningless

Islamic Jihad, a Palestinian group allied with Hamas, has rejected US President Donald Trump’s new 20-point plan to end the Gaza war, calling it a formula for more aggression and instability.

The group argued that the plan, backed by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu after talks in Washington, seeks to impose conditions Palestinians cannot accept. The plan proposes a ceasefire, the release of hostages held by Hamas, disarmament of Hamas, and a phased Israeli withdrawal. It also calls for a temporary international stabilisation force and a transitional authority led by Trump himself alongside other world leaders. However, it explicitly excludes Hamas and other Palestinian factions from any role in Gaza’s governance.

Gaza residents have voiced scepticism and frustration. Many see the proposal as unrealistic and manipulative. Ibrahim Joudeh, displaced from Rafah, said the conditions were designed to prolong suffering. Similarly, Abu Mazen Nassar from Deir el-Balah warned that the deal was an attempt to force the release of hostages without concrete guarantees to end the war. Others, like homemaker Najwa Muslim, said they had lost all faith in such initiatives, noting that if peace were truly intended, it would not have taken this long.

Despite widespread distrust, some residents still hold onto hope. Street vendor Anas Sorour from Khan Yunis said he remained optimistic that the war would eventually end, expressing belief in a brighter future. Meanwhile, violence in Gaza continues. At least 30 people were killed on Monday in Israeli strikes, according to local civil defence officials. After nearly two years of war and repeated failed ceasefire attempts, many Palestinians believe peace efforts will remain empty promises unless backed by real action and guarantees.