WASHINGTON – The White House on Monday released a proposal it says could bring an immediate end to the Gaza war, calling for a phased Israeli withdrawal, the return of hostages, and the establishment of an international body to oversee the territory’s reconstruction.

The plan, backed by President Donald Trump, envisions Gaza becoming a “deradicalised, terror-free zone” with rebuilding efforts directed at improving living conditions for Palestinians. “No one will be forced to leave Gaza,” the proposal states.

Under the framework, Israeli forces would pull back to pre-designated lines once both Israel and Hamas accept the deal, allowing for the release of hostages. Within 72 hours of Israel’s public acceptance, all captives – alive or dead – would be returned. In return, Israel would free 250 prisoners serving life sentences along with 1,700 other detainees held since October 7, 2023, including women and children.

Hamas members who renounce violence, surrender weapons and commit to peaceful coexistence would be offered amnesty or safe passage abroad, the document says. Humanitarian aid would be delivered immediately and distributed by the United Nations, the Red Crescent and other neutral organisations. The Rafah border crossing with Egypt would reopen under the same arrangements as a previous deal in January.

A temporary Palestinian technocratic committee would take charge of municipal governance, overseen by a newly created “Board of Peace” led by Trump and including international figures such as former UK prime minister Tony Blair. The body would supervise funding, governance and redevelopment until the Palestinian Authority is deemed ready to resume control.

The plan outlines the creation of a special economic zone to attract investment, while barring Hamas or other armed groups from holding any role in governance. All tunnels and military infrastructure would be dismantled, with compliance verified by independent monitors.

Security would be underpinned by a new International Stabilisation Force, coordinated by Washington and involving Arab and international partners. The force would help train vetted Palestinian police and manage border security with Egypt and Israel.

Israel would not annex or occupy Gaza under the plan, but maintain a security perimeter until the situation stabilises. If Hamas refuses to accept the proposal, the White House says reconstruction and aid would still be advanced in areas deemed free of armed groups.

The blueprint also calls for interfaith dialogue to counter extremism and outlines a “credible path” to Palestinian self-determination once reconstruction and reform are under way. Washington would facilitate renewed dialogue between Israel and the Palestinians to establish what it describes as a political horizon for peace.