Hamas Agrees to Key Elements of Trump’s Gaza Peace Plan

Hamas has accepted significant components of Donald Trump‘s Gaza peace plan, marking a potential turning point in the ongoing conflict. The agreement includes the administration of Gaza being handed over to a Palestinian body and the release of all remaining hostages held by Hamas. While this development appears promising, Hamas has indicated a desire for further negotiations regarding various other aspects of the plan.

Trump’s comprehensive 20-point plan outlines multiple demands, including an immediate ceasefire and a prisoner exchange. Specifically, it proposes the release of all hostages held by Hamas in return for Palestinian prisoners held by Israel. The plan also calls for a staged withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, the disarmament of Hamas, and the establishment of a transitional government supported by an international body.

In a statement, Hamas expressed its appreciation for the efforts made by Arab, Islamic, and international communities, as well as those of President Trump. They acknowledged the need for an end to hostilities in the Gaza Strip, stating that they agree to release all living and deceased Israeli prisoners based on the exchange formula proposed by Trump. They emphasized that this would only occur if the necessary conditions are met on the ground.

Hamas has also affirmed its willingness to enter immediate negotiations through mediators to finalize the details of the proposed agreement. The group indicated readiness to transfer control of the Gaza Strip to an independent Palestinian body, emphasizing a need for consensus and support from Arab and Islamic nations.

Despite this willingness, Hamas has not committed to disarmament, a crucial demand from both Israel and President Trump. Reports suggest that mediators have informed Israeli officials that Hamas may require additional time to return hostages, particularly deceased individuals. Under Trump’s plan, Hamas is expected to return all living and deceased hostages within 72 hours. However, Hamas leader Mousa Abu Marzouk stated in an interview with Al Jazeera that the timely handover of prisoners and bodies is “a theoretical and unrealistic matter in the current circumstances.”

The ongoing situation remains fluid, with the potential for further developments as negotiations continue. Observers are closely monitoring the situation for updates on this significant diplomatic effort.