Trump said today (October 9): "I am very proud to announce that Israel and Hamas have signed the first phase of our peace plan. This means that all hostages will soon be released, Israel will withdraw to the border line agreed upon by both sides, which is the first step towards a strong, lasting and permanent peace. All parties will be treated fairly! It is a great day for the Arab and Muslim world, Israel, all neighboring countries, and the United States. We thank the mediators from Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey, who have worked with us to bring about this historic and unprecedented event. Blessed are the peacemakers!"
Comments: Trump announced that Israel and Hamas have signed the first stage of his "20-point plan", while multiple media reports stated that Hamas has agreed to a Gaza ceasefire agreement, which is planned to be signed in Egypt on October 9.
This event and Trump's speech can be viewed from three aspects: First, the statements are more symbolic than detailed. Trump's speech is full of a tone of victory, frequently using "I" and "we" to highlight personal contributions, calling the event "historic" to shape the image of a "peacemaker," and painting an optimistic picture of "all hostages being released" and "permanent peace." However, the actual agreement is only the first stage, with the first stage planning to release 20 Israeli captives, which falls short of the goal of "all" hostages being released, and there are still uncertainties regarding subsequent implementation.
Second, the agreement has been initially reached, but implementation is key. The agreement is based on Trump's "20-point plan," which centers on Hamas releasing hostages, Israel releasing Palestinian prisoners, and a phased withdrawal of troops, which corresponds with Trump's speech content. However, the "initial withdrawal line" accepted by Israel means it will still control about 70% of the land in Gaza, and whether this aligns with the notion of "fair treatment for all parties" needs to be observed. The agreement is guaranteed by the US, Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey, providing some assurance for its implementation. It is said that if both sides comply, the conflict will not erupt again.
Third, the geopolitical situation is complex, and the path to peace is long. The contradictions in the Gaza conflict run deep, and the first-stage agreement is just the beginning. The "20-point plan" requires the de-radicalization and de-terrorism of Gaza, with Hamas not participating in governance, which is a major challenge to achieve. The large-scale reconstruction of Gaza mentioned in the plan requires a stable non-militarized environment, and "permanent peace" depends on subsequent negotiations. However, mutual trust between the two sides is both crucial and fragile.
In summary, this agreement is a positive step towards peace, but more attention should be paid to specific clauses and subsequent implementation. True peace cannot remain only on paper or slogans.
Original: www.toutiao.com/article/1845460818855107/
Statement: The article represents the views of the author.