Trump plan might protect Palestinians from Israeli occupiers

A curious phenomenon is unfolding: long-standing calls from Palestinians and their supporters for international intervention are beginning to gain traction. Despite numerous challenges, US President Donald Trump’s 20-point Gaza peace plan could serve as a much-needed remedy for a fractured Middle East.

It is undeniable that the balance of power has historically favored Israel, which has maintained military dominance, significant political backing from the global community (until recently) and economic superiority in the region.

For years, American administrations have vied to demonstrate unwavering support for Israel, paying lip service to the two-state solution but in fact disregarding the principles of justice and fairness. The recent escalations of violence and war crimes committed by both Hamas and Israel, coupled with strong alliances in the Gulf, have influenced the Trump administration’s approach. Notably, the president’s plan has received the UN Security Council’s stamp of approval, indicating a departure from previous US policies that have been heavily swayed by Israeli interests.

While his methodology might be unorthodox and his motives questionable, Trump appears to have found a way to produce limited results through pressing Israel without totally alienating it. The latest example was how Trump initiated the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire plan without Israeli consultation — an unprecedented move that signifies a shift in the US-Israel dynamic.

Part of the US plan includes a robust multinational military force in Gaza. This is exactly what the Non-Aligned Movement suggested decades ago and late Palestinian President Yasser Arafat supported in 2001, when he called on the G8 to send monitors. President Mahmoud Abbas repeated the idea in 2019, adding that Palestinians were willing to accept “US-led NATO troops” to assist in stabilizing the region.

While the current US plan does not explicitly extend to the West Bank, where violence by Jewish settlers against Palestinians has escalated, it lays the groundwork for potential expansions. Once established in Gaza, there should be no barriers to extending this initiative to the entirety of the Occupied Territories, paving the way for a peaceful Palestinian state alongside Israel. The appointment of US Maj. Gen. Jasper Jeffers to lead the International Stabilization Force, which is tasked with ensuring security and training a new police force in Gaza, underscores a commitment to empowering Palestinians.

Despite Israeli objections to international involvement, the US seems determined to proceed, emphasizing that this operation will not be controlled by Israel, even as it retains influence over 54 percent of Gaza. The role of Arab and Muslim nations is also crucial in navigating these complexities. Their involvement can help facilitate dialogue and ensure that the needs and aspirations of the Palestinian people are addressed.

However, significant hurdles remain. Will Israel comply with the new framework or will tensions escalate? The traditional narratives used to persuade American audiences may falter now that a general is on the ground, supported by a dedicated peace council. Thus far, there seems to be consensus among Hamas, Islamic Jihad, the Palestine Liberation Organization, Arab states and the people of Gaza regarding the need for a third-party intervention to alleviate the burdens imposed by the Israeli military.

Trump initiated the second phase of the plan without waiting for Israeli consultation — an unprecedented move.

Daoud Kuttab

Palestinians should have the freedom to travel between Rafah, Bethlehem and Nablus without facing oppressive restrictions. The West Bank-Gaza corridor, endorsed by Israel and the PLO with US backing in 1993, merits revisiting, as it could serve as a vital link in fostering Palestinian unity and movement. Travel to and prayer in Jerusalem should be open to all Palestinians.

While the bulk of the responsibility lies with the US and Israel, Palestinians still need to reaffirm their commitment to peace and coexistence, as well as prove their commitment to their own suggested democratic-centered reform plans. Municipal elections are set for April 25, the powerful Fatah movement will hold its long-delayed eighth congress on May 6 and presidential and parliamentary elections are due in October.

While this reform includes Palestinian elections, Israel and the US can help this process by ensuring the release of Palestinian prisoners, including prominent and peaceful leaders like Marwan Barghouti. The Palestinian community needs strong leadership capable of making the tough decisions that are essential for achieving peace in Gaza and the West Bank. Such leadership must be rooted in popular support and a clear vision for a peaceful future.

Ultimately, these challenges must align with the Palestinian right to self-determination, including the establishment of an independent state on the June 4, 1967, borders, with mutually agreed land swaps where necessary. The international community must also play a supportive role, ensuring that both Israeli and Palestinian aspirations are taken into account.

Despite the unconventional methods employed by the US president, there is today cautious optimism among many Palestinians that we are finally moving in the right direction, toward peaceful coexistence between Palestine and Israel. The path ahead is fraught with challenges, but with a renewed commitment to dialogue and cooperation, there is potential for a more stable and just future in the region.

• Daoud Kuttab is an award-winning Palestinian journalist and former Ferris Professor of Journalism at Princeton University. He is the author of “State of Palestine Now: Practical and Logical Arguments for the Best Way to Bring Peace to the Middle East.” X: @daoudkuttab