**Trump Issues Deadline for Hamas on Gaza Peace Proposal** U.S. President Donald Trump is intensifying pressure on Hamas to respond to his 20-point peace plan aimed at ending the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Trump has stated that he expects a response within days, warning that failure to do so could lead to a "very sad end" to the conflict. Analysts, however, express skepticism about the viability of the proposed deal.

On Monday, Trump unveiled his peace plan, which marks a significant shift from his previous positions. The plan includes commitments that both Hamas and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have previously rejected. Despite this, Netanyahu has agreed to the proposal, while Hamas has indicated it is "studying" the plan. Michael Lynk, a law professor at Western University and former UN rapporteur, expressed his doubts, stating, "As I read the content, I am less and less surprised, and more and more skeptical."

The proposal demands that Hamas disarm in exchange for uncertain benefits. Should Hamas reject the plan, Trump has pledged that Israel would have full U.S. support to take necessary actions in Gaza, where over 66,000 Palestinians have reportedly died since the conflict began.

Key elements of Trump's proposal include:

1. **Immediate Ceasefire**: The plan stipulates that if both parties agree, the war would end immediately. Hamas would have 72 hours to return all remaining hostages, while Israel would release 1,700 Gazans detained since October 7, including women and children.

2. **Israeli Troop Withdrawal**: The proposal calls for Israeli troops to withdraw only after Hamas disarms. An International Stabilization Force (ISF) would be established to oversee the transition, although Israel would maintain a security presence around Gaza.

3. **Demilitarization of Gaza**: The plan demands the complete demilitarization of Gaza, including the destruction of military infrastructure. Hamas has previously rejected similar demands.

4. **International Governance**: The proposal suggests that Hamas relinquish its authority in favor of an international governing body, with former British Prime Minister Tony Blair playing a significant role. The plan envisions a transitional government to manage Gaza's public services.

5. **Palestinian Statehood**: The proposal briefly mentions the possibility of Palestinian statehood, but it lacks specific timelines or conditions for achieving this goal. Netanyahu has historically opposed Palestinian statehood, raising questions about the proposal's feasibility.

While Netanyahu has endorsed the plan, skepticism remains regarding Hamas's acceptance of its terms. Lynk noted that the conditions may be unacceptable to Hamas, suggesting that the conflict and suffering could persist. Gazans themselves have expressed doubt about the plan's potential to bring about meaningful change.

Despite the challenges, Lynk pointed out that Hamas has indicated a willingness to disarm if Israel withdraws from Gaza. He remarked, "I think there is such weariness of genocide in Gaza by the two million Palestinians — and [Hamas's] own popularity has gone way down that they'll probably have no choice but to accept."

As the situation develops, the international community watches closely to see if the proposed peace plan can lead to a resolution in Gaza.