DONALD Trump, the President of the United States, has once again entered the Middle East arena.

On September 29, 2025, he made a 20-point peace proposal. The plan is being called a “historic solution” for Gaza. The plan outlines a path to a truce, assistance in rebuilding and the establishment of a government. However, when viewed in the light of International Law, UN conventions and agreements, it becomes clear that sovereignty, inclusivity and legitimacy are the primary areas of concern which are being undermined in this plan.

The deal discusses immediate humanitarian aid, which is a welcome point; it also mentions a prisoner exchange, a phased withdrawal of Israeli forces and the establishment of an international body to oversee the process. It is being criticized as it failed to include all the parties to the conflict, especially by announcing it while sharing the stage with the Israeli Prime Minister, with no representation of Palestine.

The plan calls for a ceasefire and an exchange of prisoners, which means that fighting must stop right away and all Israeli hostages must be returned within 72 hours. Israel would let off more than 2,000 Palestinian inmates, including many who are serving life sentences. Palestinians are afraid that such an exchange could turn into another one-sided capitulation if there is no impartial scrutiny.

The timing for Israel’s exit is unclear and the phased disengagement of Israel is probably the most worrying........

© Pakistan Observer