Hamas has responded positively to US President Donald Trump’s Gaza proposal after an ultimatum. The group indicated it’s ready to engage in mediation talks, allowing for detailed discussions about the release of hostages and other related conditions. Hamas has accepted some of the US plan to end the Gaza Strip war, which includes relinquishing power and freeing all remaining hostages, but further negotiations with Palestinians are deemed necessary on other aspects.
This announcement follows Trump’s demand that Hamas agree to the deal by Sunday evening, a move that escalates the risk of a major military operation nearly two years after the October 7 attack on Israel. The response from the US and Israel to the partial acceptance remains uncertain.
President Trump had firmly stated that if Hamas didn’t consent to the proposed peace agreement for the Gaza Strip by Sunday at 6 p.m., the extremist group would face intensified attacks. Trump appears determined to fulfill his commitment to end the conflict and secure the return of numerous hostages before the second anniversary of the Israel-Hamas war.
The plan presented by the American President to establish peace in Gaza has received Israel’s approval and international support. However, key mediators such as Egypt and Qatar, along with a senior Hamas leader, have highlighted the need for further discussions on certain elements. Details about these specific aspects remain undisclosed.
In a social media post, Trump emphasized the need for a deal with Hamas by 6 p.m. (Washington D.C. time) on Sunday. He added, “Every country has signed it! If this last opportunity for agreement fails, then Hamas will be hit with a wrath like never before seen. Peace will be established in the Middle East in one way or another.”
Trump introduced a plan to end the war in the Gaza Strip this week after discussions with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The plan stipulates an immediate end to hostilities following an agreement between Israel and Hamas. Hamas would release Israeli hostages (both living and deceased), while Israel would release Palestinian prisoners.
The plan offers amnesty to Hamas members who embrace peaceful coexistence and disarm. Those choosing to leave Gaza will be granted safe passage. It also calls for immediate humanitarian aid, including the rebuilding of infrastructure. Individuals will not be compelled to leave Gaza, with freedom of movement for those who want to depart or return.
The administration of Gaza will be transferred to a temporary, technical, and non-political Palestinian entity monitored by a Board of Peace, chaired by President Donald Trump, with members including former British Prime Minister Tony Blair and other global leaders.
The agreement ensures regional partners guarantee that Hamas and other factions will not breach the agreement, and Gaza will pose no threat. The United States will deploy an International Stabilization Force (ISF) with Arab and international partners to train local Palestinian police and maintain security.
The plan explicitly states that Israel will not occupy or annex Gaza. Following the ISF’s establishment of stability, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) will gradually withdraw from the area, leaving border regions under control until final security is ensured.