Gaza’s residents remain doubtful about the new peace plan announced Monday by US President Donald Trump, viewing it as ineffective in stopping the conflict.
“This plan is clearly unrealistic,” stated Ibrahim Joudeh, 39, from his refuge in Al-Mawasi’s humanitarian zone in southern Gaza.
“The conditions are such that Hamas would never agree, meaning the war and suffering persist,” added Joudeh, a computer programmer from Rafah, a city ravaged by a military offensive starting in May.
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Residents reacted after Trump introduced his 20-point plan to cease the war, supported by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu post-discussions at the White House.
The plan demands a ceasefire, Hamas’s release of hostages, disarmament, and Israel’s gradual withdrawal from Gaza.
Key aspects include deploying a “temporary international stabilization force” and forming a transitional authority led by Trump and other global leaders.
The plan excludes Hamas and other militant groups from governing Gaza in any capacity.
Manipulation
Abu Mazen Nassar, 52, echoed skepticism, fearing the plan aims to trick Palestinian groups into releasing hostages with no peace guarantee.
“It’s all manipulation. Handing over prisoners without assurances to end the war is senseless,” said Nassar, displaced from north Gaza to Deir el-Balah.
“We won’t accept this farce,” he declared, “Regardless of Hamas’s decision now, it’s too late.”
“Hamas has failed us and submerged us in its own chaos.”
‘No war lasts forever’
However, Anas Sorour, a 31-year-old vendor from Khan Yunis, hoped for change.
“Despite our losses, I still hope,” Sorour shared with AFP.
“No war is endless. I’m optimistic this time, praying it brings joy and eases our pain,” he expressed.
No hope
Conversely, Najwa Muslim, 29, a homemaker, has lost hope.
“The deal and life itself seem hopeless,” Muslim stated from central Gaza after fleeing Gaza City amid intense military strikes.
“If there was genuine intent to end the war, action would have come sooner,” she remarked.
On Monday, Israeli strikes reportedly killed at least 30 people in Gaza, as per Gaza’s civil defense under Hamas control.
After nearly two years of war and numerous ceasefire attempts, new deals are approached with mistrust, even after Trump’s public announcement with Netanyahu.
Mohammed al-Beltaji, 47, from Gaza City, shared his perspective with AFP.
“As usual, Israel agrees, Hamas refuses, or vice versa. It’s a game with us paying the price.”
Earlier Monday, smoke rose over displaced persons’ tents in Khan Yunis.
