World Leaders Respond to Historic US-Backed Gaza Agreement Between Trump and Netanyahu

US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have announced their joint backing for a US-sponsored proposal aimed at ending the ongoing war in Gaza. While the plan has gained international approval, the spotlight now turns to Hamas, whose response will determine whether this initiative leads to peace or renewed conflict.

The Framework of the Proposal

The White House released a comprehensive 20-point framework that seeks to address immediate and long-term issues fueling the conflict. The key elements include an immediate ceasefire, the release of hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners, a phased Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, Hamas disarmament, and the creation of a transitional government under an international body. Trump emphasized, “If Hamas rejects the plan, Israel has my full support to defeat Hamas,” highlighting both the opportunity for peace and the risks of escalation.

Trump and Netanyahu in Washington

Standing alongside Netanyahu at the White House, Trump declared the proposal a chance to “bring an end to the death and destruction and begin a new chapter of security, peace and prosperity for the entire region.” Netanyahu echoed these sentiments, calling the plan a “critical step” while warning that if Hamas refuses to comply, Israel “will finish the job by itself.” This joint stance marks one of the strongest displays of alignment between the US and Israel during the conflict.

Reactions from France and Italy

International leaders were quick to respond. French President Emmanuel Macron welcomed the plan, stating, “I expect Israel to engage resolutely on this basis. Hamas has no choice but to immediately release all hostages and follow this plan.” Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni described the proposal as a “turning point,” noting its potential to end hostilities, ensure humanitarian access, and free hostages. Italy’s government also underscored that Hamas must disarm and accept no role in Gaza’s future governance.

Support from Britain and Germany

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed his support for the US initiative and called for unity. “We call on all sides to come together and to work with the US Administration to finalise this agreement and bring it into reality,” he said. Germany’s Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul described the plan as offering “hope for hundreds of thousands of people suffering in Gaza,” urging Hamas not to waste the opportunity.

Backing from Pakistan and the EU

Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif praised the plan, noting that Trump was “fully prepared to assist in whatever way necessary.” He also reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for a two-state solution, describing it as “essential to ensure lasting peace in the region.” Meanwhile, European Council President Antonio Costa emphasized that all parties must seize this moment to give peace a genuine chance.

Support from Arab and Muslim Nations

A joint statement by Saudi Arabia, Jordan, the UAE, Indonesia, Pakistan, Turkey, Qatar, and Egypt highlighted broad support for the US proposal. The ministers praised Trump’s “leadership and sincere efforts” and committed to engaging positively with Washington. Their priorities include unrestricted humanitarian aid, preventing Palestinian displacement, securing hostages’ release, full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, reconstruction of the enclave, and linking Gaza with the West Bank.

Challenges Ahead

While the plan has received widespread international backing, the challenge lies in Hamas’s response. The organization faces mounting pressure to agree to terms that include disarmament and exclusion from Gaza’s political future. Whether Hamas accepts or rejects the proposal will determine if the region moves toward peace or descends into further bloodshed.