Trump‘s Proposal Gains traction as Hamas Signals Acceptance of Hostage deal
Hamas has indicated a willingness to except the terms of a ceasefire proposal put forward by former U.S. President Donald Trump, a move widely seen as a potential breakthrough in the nearly two-year conflict with Israel. The proclamation, made Friday night, included Hamas’s “approval of releasing all occupation prisoners – both living and remains – according to the exchange formula contained in president Trump’s proposal,” contingent on unspecified “field conditions” for implementation.
Trump’s plan calls for an immediate cessation of hostilities in Gaza, followed within 72 hours by an exchange of hostages held by Hamas and Palestinian prisoners held by Israel. It also outlines a gradual withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, the disarmament of Hamas, and the establishment of a transitional authority led by Trump. The proposal further details a surge of humanitarian aid to Gaza, where famine is a growing concern, and a comprehensive reconstruction effort for the heavily damaged territory.
The Trump initiative is understood to align with principles previously articulated by Israel and has been welcomed by numerous international powers. While largely viewed as unfavorable to Hamas – potentially leading to the group’s dissolution as an armed faction – it demands limited concessions from Israel.
Hamas stated that certain “other issues” within the proposal require further discussion “within a unified Palestinian national framework,” likely encompassing concerns regarding arms control, the complete withdrawal of Israeli troops, and international guarantees for a lasting ceasefire. Despite not immediately agreeing to disarm, Hamas’s acceptance of a hostage handover is considered a notable concession, as the 48 remaining hostages represent a key leverage point for the group.
International reaction to Hamas’s response has been overwhelmingly positive.The Qatari ministry of foreign affairs has begun coordinating with Egypt and the U.S. to facilitate negotiations. UN Secretary-General António Guterres urged all parties to capitalize on the chance to end the conflict, while leaders from the UK, France, and Germany – Keir Starmer, Emmanuel Macron, and Friedrich Merz respectively – expressed optimism and called for swift implementation of the plan.
The conflict began on October 7, 2023, when Hamas-led militants attacked Israel, killing approximately 1,200 people and taking 251 hostages. Israel’s subsequent military operation in gaza has resulted in over 60,000 Palestinian deaths and approximately 170,000 injuries, according to the Gaza health authority, primarily affecting civilians. These figures do not account for those buried under rubble or those who have died as indirect consequences of the war.
Trump is widely perceived as uniquely positioned to pressure Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu into accepting a ceasefire agreement. The original statement from Trump’s team did not address his previous demand that Israel halt bombing in Gaza.
