How Hamas Reacted to Trump’s Peace Plan

Hamas has agreed to major parts of a Gaza peace proposal from US President Donald Trump. The militant group announced it will release all remaining hostages and hand over power in Gaza to an independent Palestinian body. This development follows intense diplomatic efforts to end the prolonged conflict.

President Trump subsequently called for Israel to immediately halt its bombing campaign in the region. The statement from Hamas signals a potential breakthrough after months of stalled negotiations and ongoing violence.

Hamas Statement Outlines Conditional Agreement

In a detailed statement shared by Trump, Hamas expressed appreciation for international mediation efforts. The group cited its “national responsibility” and a desire to end the “aggression and genocide” against the Palestinian people. This move represents a significant shift in the group’s public position.

According to Reuters, the agreement is conditional on a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza. Hamas reaffirmed its openness to transferring administrative control of Gaza to a body of technocrats. This administration would be based on Palestinian national consensus.

The group also agreed to release all Israeli prisoners, both living and remains. It stated readiness to immediately enter negotiations through mediators to discuss the implementation details of the exchange. However, the statement made no mention of disarming, a key Israeli demand included in Trump’s original proposal.

Israel Prepares to Scale Back Military Operations

In response to the announcement, Israel’s political leadership has instructed its military to reduce offensive operations. The Israeli government said it was preparing for the “immediate implementation” of the first stage of the peace plan. This marks a notable de-escalation after a prolonged and destructive military campaign.

Trump’s 21-point peace proposal, backed by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, outlines a clear path forward. It calls for a complete end to hostilities and the release of hostages within 72 hours. The plan also includes a gradual Israeli withdrawal from Gaza and, critically, Hamas’s disarmament.

The proposal explicitly states that Hamas should have no future role in governing Gaza. Administration would instead fall to a technocratic body. This transitional authority would be overseen by a post-war authority headed by Trump himself, as reported by the Associated Press.

The acceptance of key terms by Hamas represents the most significant step toward peace in the conflict in recent memory. This breakthrough could pave the way for a lasting ceasefire and a new political reality in Gaza. The international community now watches closely as both sides move toward implementation.

Thought you’d like to know

What are the main points Hamas has agreed to?

Hamas has agreed to release all remaining hostages. The group also accepts handing over governance of Gaza to an independent Palestinian body of technocrats.

How has Israel responded to this development?

Israel has instructed its military to scale back operations in Gaza. The government says it is preparing for immediate implementation of the plan’s first phase.

What was President Trump’s role in the peace process?

Trump presented a 21-point peace proposal that formed the basis of these negotiations. He publicly called for Israel to stop bombing after Hamas’s statement was released.

What key Hamas demand was not mentioned in the statement?

The statement from Hamas made no mention of the group disarming. This remains a central requirement in Trump’s original proposal and for Israel.

Who would govern Gaza under this proposed plan?

Administration would be handed to a technocratic body of independents. This would be overseen by a post-war transitional authority.