In a significant development regarding the ongoing conflict in Gaza, Hamas has expressed its acceptance of several components of US President Donald Trump’s ceasefire plan. This announcement follows Hamas’ delivery of a formal response to Trump’s 20-point ceasefire proposal on Friday, shortly after the President issued a deadline for the group to reply by Sunday.
According to informed sources, Hamas has agreed to release all captives held by the group, including both living individuals and the remains of those who have died. This exchange will adhere to the formula outlined in Trump’s proposal, contingent upon the establishment of field conditions necessary for the exchange to occur.
Additionally, Hamas indicated its willingness to “immediately enter negotiations through mediators” to discuss the finer details of the exchange. The group also expressed readiness to transfer the administration of the Gaza Strip to a body of Palestinian independents, or technocrats, emphasizing that this should be based on a national consensus supported by Arab and Islamic nations.
However, Hamas voiced concerns regarding aspects of the proposal that pertain to “the future of the Gaza Strip and the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people.” The group insists that these matters should be resolved based on a “unanimous national position and relevant international laws and resolutions.”
This statement comes in the wake of Trump's warning on his Truth Social platform, where he stated that failure to reach an agreement by Sunday would result in “all HELL, like no one has ever seen before, will break out against Hamas.” The Trump plan includes several demands not addressed in Hamas' statement, notably a request for the group to disarm.
In response to Hamas' acceptance, White House Press Secretary confirmed that Trump would address the group's response. “Behind the Scenes in the Oval Office: President Trump responds to Hamas’ acceptance of his Peace Plan,” the Secretary posted on X, along with an image of Trump at his desk, ready to make remarks.
Al Jazeera’s Ali Hashem noted that Hamas' statement has opened “a window for negotiations.” He highlighted that there is a potential for significant exchanges in the coming 48 hours. Hashem pointed out that Hamas may have reservations about the proposal for an international transitional body, potentially led by former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair, to oversee governance in post-war Gaza.
Furthermore, Hashem emphasized that Trump’s plan does not provide a clear pathway for the reunification of Gaza with the Israeli-occupied West Bank, which could alienate Gaza from the broader Palestinian cause. “They do not want to see Gaza isolated from the bigger picture,” he stated.
Hashem also underscored that many Arab and Islamic countries believe the document they initially endorsed differs from Trump's published proposal. This divergence may align Hamas’ reservations with the sentiments of the broader Arab and Islamic community.
Despite these concerns, Hamas acknowledged the efforts of Arab, Islamic, and international parties, including President Trump, in seeking a resolution to the conflict. “Hamas has displayed positivity by embracing the spirit of the proposal and commending President Trump’s initiative. This indicates their readiness to extend their hand for peace,” Hashem remarked, while also noting that the ball is now in President Trump’s court for further action.
