By SKVoices | International Affairs
In January 2020, former U.S. President Donald Trump unveiled what he called the “Deal of the Century” — a highly controversial proposal intended to resolve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, one of the world’s most enduring geopolitical tensions. Titled “Peace to Prosperity,” the plan was developed in close consultation with the Israeli government but without direct Palestinian involvement — a key detail that has fueled global criticism.
🌍 What Was in the Plan?
The 181-page document laid out Trump’s vision for a two-state solution — but with conditions that heavily favored Israel:
- Jerusalem would remain Israel’s undivided capital, despite Palestinian claims to East Jerusalem as their future capital.
- A sovereign Palestinian state would be established, but only after meeting strict political and security conditions, including demilitarization.
- The U.S. would recognize Israeli sovereignty over settlements in the West Bank, which are considered illegal under international law.
- Palestine would receive a $50 billion economic package, promising job creation and infrastructure development — but without guarantees.
🇵🇸 Palestinian Rejection
The Palestinian leadership rejected the plan outright, calling it a “political stunt” and “the slap of the century.” Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas said:
“Jerusalem is not for sale. Our rights are not for sale. And your deal, the conspiracy, will not pass.”
Critics noted that the plan did not involve meaningful negotiations with the Palestinians, making it more of an Israeli peace plan backed by U.S. power than a balanced mediation.
🇮🇱 Israeli Endorsement
Unsurprisingly, the plan was enthusiastically welcomed by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who praised it as a “realistic path to a durable peace” and a green light for annexation of parts of the West Bank.
🧭 What’s the Real Agenda?
While Trump’s administration framed the deal as a breakthrough, many analysts believe it was more about solidifying U.S.-Israeli relations, appeasing evangelical voters, and weakening Palestinian leverage on the world stage.
In effect, the deal:
- Redefined what “peace” means by prioritizing economic incentives over sovereignty;
- Stripped Palestinians of key negotiating positions;
- Further entrenched the Israeli occupation of the West Bank.
💭 SKVoices Opinion
Trump’s peace plan was not a genuine effort to mediate but a strategic political document dressed up as diplomacy. The lack of neutrality, absence of Palestinian voices, and push for unilateral Israeli interests made it dead on arrival in the eyes of many in the international community.
🗣️ Let’s Hear From You
Do you think Trump’s plan was a missed opportunity or a necessary reality check?
👉 Comment below or vote in our SKVoices:
🗳️ Was Trump’s plan fair?
- Yes, it was realistic and pragmatic
- No, it ignored Palestinian rights
- Not sure – both sides need to compromise
