US president warns of a “very sad end” if Hamas rejects his 20-point Gaza proposal amid ongoing war and humanitarian crisis
United States President Donald Trump has issued a stark ultimatum to Hamas, declaring that the Palestinian group has “three or four days” to accept his newly unveiled Gaza peace plan. Speaking at the White House on Tuesday, Trump stressed that both Israel and several Arab leaders had already endorsed the proposal, leaving little room for negotiation.
“Hamas is either going to be doing it or not, and if it’s not, it’s going to be a very sad end,” Trump told reporters. When asked about potential amendments, he replied bluntly: “Not much.”
The 20-point document, released by the White House a day earlier, calls for:
- An immediate ceasefire in the Gaza Strip
- An exchange of Israeli captives for Palestinian prisoners
- A staged Israeli withdrawal from Gaza
- The disarmament of Hamas
- The deployment of a temporary international stabilization force
Under the plan, Hamas would be barred from governing Gaza but offered amnesty if members agree to “peaceful coexistence.” Those unwilling to stay would be granted safe passage abroad. Trump’s framework also envisions a transitional Palestinian technocratic government, the return of displaced residents, and assurances that “the people of Gaza will not be removed.”
Gaza War Intensifies as Proposal Debated
The renewed push to halt the Israel–Gaza war, now in its second year, comes amid a devastating toll: over 66,000 Palestinians killed, widespread destruction, and what aid agencies describe as a deepening humanitarian crisis.
On Tuesday, Israeli airstrikes killed dozens more in Gaza, including 20 civilians trying to collect aid. Reports from Nuseirat refugee camp and Deir el-Balah confirmed further casualties, including children and a journalist.
“Hamas’s negotiating team is studying the proposal,” said Qatar’s prime minister, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, adding that several points need clarification. Still, he urged all sides to “seize the opportunity to end the war.”
The rival Fatah movement welcomed US efforts but criticized the plan’s terms. Senior official Abbas Zaki condemned it as a “document of surrender” that could “fragment Palestinian unity” and “legitimize occupation.”
An Ultimatum, Not a Deal
Analysts warn that Trump’s approach resembles an ultimatum rather than a diplomatic offer. By presenting the plan alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Trump appeared to give a “green light” for further Israeli military action should Hamas refuse.
“Hamas would have to give up all leverage to a party they don’t trust,” said Professor Sultan Barakat of Hamad Bin Khalifa University. “And the way Trump presented it suggests the plan is skewed to Israel’s advantage.”
As bombs continue to fall on Gaza City, the coming days may decide whether Trump’s initiative brings a ceasefire or fuels further escalation in a conflict already marked by immense suffering.