The Rachman Review What chance for Trump’s Gaza peace plan?
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Oct 9, 2025 
In this discussion, Philip Gordon, a former White House official and Middle East expert, shares insights on Donald Trump’s 20-point plan for peace in Gaza. He evaluates the plan's low chances of full implementation but suggests a hostage-for-prisoner pause might be possible. Gordon also assesses the balance Netanyahu maintains between security needs and political pressures, examines the challenges of disarming Hamas, and explores the dwindling support for a two-state solution. Ultimately, he conveys that mutual exhaustion may pave the way for temporary agreements.
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Full Plan Faces Slim Odds
- The 20-point Trump plan is unlikely to be implemented in full, especially disarming Hamas and wholesale governance change.
- A narrower hostage-and-prisoner pause is plausible and would still be a significant achievement.
The Vicious Circle Of Demands
- A temporary ceasefire and hostage release are plausible but long-term cessation requires Hamas disarmament and Israeli withdrawal, which clash.
- That creates a persistent vicious circle preventing both sides simultaneously getting their core demands met.
Trump's Claimed Leverage Is Overstated
- Trump hasn't consistently pressured Netanyahu earlier despite claiming credit now, so the narrative of singular Trump influence is overstated.
- Implementation still requires actions from Israel that so far have not occurred under Trump.