The 17th edition of the Al Jazeera Forum in Doha addressed President Trump's peace plan for Gaza, titled 'Deal of the Century', during a session examining its objectives and potential for success. With the backdrop of a conflict that lasted over two years, the session reviewed the recent efforts for a ceasefire, achieved through mediation from Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey, with U.S. support, which resulted in a truce on October 10.

Discussions centered on evaluating the practicality of Trump's plan following its announcement four months earlier. Speakers deliberated on whether the plan adequately addressed the current on-ground realities and political dynamics, emphasizing the importance of achieving foundational rights for the Palestinian people. Mustafa Barghouthi, the Secretary-General of the Palestinian National Initiative, raised significant doubts regarding the premise of the plan, suggesting it lacks essential elements necessary for genuine peace and resolution to the ongoing occupation.

Barghouthi criticized the notion of establishing peace without ending the occupation or ensuring fundamental rights for Palestinians, labeling the conversation as incomplete. He highlighted that the gravitas of the plan lies not only in its written framework but also in its implications for the region, stressing that any sustainable peace must prioritize genuine engagement with the aspirations of the Palestinian population. The forum sought to provide a platform for nuanced discussions on these critical issues, reflecting the contentious nature of peace negotiations in the region.