The New Statesman: politics and culture Is anyone taking Trump's peace plans seriously?
Oct 1, 2025
Katie Stallard, a Washington-based journalist and US foreign policy analyst, joins to explore Trump's bold 20-point Gaza plan. They discuss Hamas's potential resistance and Netanyahu's strategic calculus in accepting the plan. Shifted public opinion on Israel, especially among younger Americans, is also highlighted. Katie contrasts Trump's theatrical diplomacy with the hard realities of global politics and questions the sincerity of leaders like Putin. Ultimately, she emphasizes the limitations of Trump's approach and the lack of a long-term strategy.
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Immediate Tradeoffs Vs Vague Transition
- Trump's 20-point Gaza plan pairs an immediate ceasefire and hostage exchange with a vague long-term transition for Gaza's governance.
- The plan demands Hamas disarm and relinquish power, a condition that historically contradicts Hamas's identity and bargaining logic.
Hamas's Core Red Lines
- The long-term demands in the plan ask Hamas to give up weapons, power, and leverage, which are core to its identity and strategy.
- Katie Stallard argues these red lines make Hamas acceptance highly uncertain despite calls to study the offer.
Netanyahu's Tactical Acceptance
- Netanyahu publicly accepted Trump's plan but stressed that if Hamas undermines it Israel will 'finish the job' itself.
- Stallard sees Netanyahu's acceptance as tactical: managing Trump while preserving freedom to continue military objectives.