Trump Demands Israel Ceasefire After Hamas Backs Part of Hostage Deal

Former US President Donald Trump has called for an immediate halt to Israeli bombing in Gaza. He made the statement after Hamas agreed to key elements of his proposed peace plan. The group agreed to release the remaining hostages from its 2023 attack.

Trump responded favorably to the Hamas announcement on his Truth Social platform. He stated the current situation is “far too dangerous” to safely retrieve the hostages without a pause in hostilities. This development marks a critical moment in the nearly two-year conflict.

Details of the Hamas Statement and Trump’s Reaction

Hamas issued a statement agreeing to release the last of the hostages. However, the group did not address other crucial parts of Trump’s 20-point proposal. A key omission was the demand for Hamas to disarm, a non-negotiable point for Israel.

According to Reuters, Hamas stated that other aspects require further consultations among Palestinian factions. These aspects involve the future governance of Gaza and broader Palestinian rights. Senior officials hinted that major disagreements still remain on these topics. Trump views the statement as a foundation for lasting peace, despite these gaps.

International Responses and Sticking Points

World leaders and mediators quickly welcomed the move. Key mediators Egypt and Qatar confirmed they would continue discussions on the plan. The office of the UN Secretary-General urged all parties to seize this opportunity to end the conflict.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel was ready for the “first stage” of the plan. This stage refers to the hostage release. His office, however, reaffirmed Israel’s commitment to ending the war based on its own previously stated principles. This suggests potential conflicts remain between the Israeli and Hamas positions.

The push for a ceasefire hinges on complex negotiations, but the commitment from all sides to engage with this proposal is a significant step forward.

Thought you’d like to know-

What did Hamas specifically agree to in Trump’s plan?

Hamas agreed to release the last 48 hostages taken during the October 7, 2023 attack. The group did not agree to other elements, such as disarming or provisions about Gaza’s future.

How did Israel react to the Hamas statement?

Israel expressed readiness to implement the first stage of the plan concerning the hostages. The Israeli government also reiterated its commitment to its own war-ending principles, indicating ongoing negotiations are needed.

What was Trump’s warning to Hamas prior to this?

Trump had warned that Hamas must agree to the deal by a Sunday deadline. He threatened an unprecedented military response if the “LAST CHANCE” agreement was not reached.

Which countries are mediating these peace talks?

Egypt and Qatar are the key mediators in the discussions. Both nations welcomed Hamas’s move and pledged to continue talks on the proposed peace plan.

What happens after the hostages are released?

According to the proposal, Israel would halt its offensive, withdraw from much of Gaza, and release Palestinian prisoners. Long-term plans for reconstruction and governance would then be addressed.

Trusted Sources: Reuters, Associated Press