Hamas Accepts US Peace Proposal with Conditions, Urges Israel to Cease Hostilities
Hamas has expressed a willingness to accept a peace proposal from US President Donald Trump, which includes the release of all hostages, prompting Trump to urge Israel to halt its bombardment of the Gaza Strip, reports 24brussels.
The militant organization announced its intention to release all Israeli hostages, both living and deceased, in accordance with the terms outlined in Trump’s proposal. This plan also demands that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government release 250 Palestinian prisoners serving life sentences and 1,700 Gazans detained during the ongoing conflict.
However, Hamas’s acceptance is conditional, as it seeks to negotiate various aspects of the plan and insists on certain “field conditions” before proceeding with the exchange.
Trump stated his belief that Hamas is “ready for a lasting peace” and insisted that Israel “immediately stop the bombing of Gaza” to facilitate the safe and swift release of the hostages. In a follow-up video, he characterized the day’s developments as a “very special day,” expressing optimism that peace is within reach.
Netanyahu’s office indicated that Israel is preparing to initiate the first stage of Trump’s plan for the immediate release of all hostages and will continue collaboration with Trump’s team to bring the conflict to a resolution.
This proposal places significant political pressure on Netanyahu, as dissent among his coalition members over certain terms could complicate his path forward; he may require support from opposition leaders to implement the plan.
Analysts consider Hamas’s statement to be ambiguous. While the organization agreed to transfer administrative control of Gaza to an independent Palestinian authority, it has not definitively addressed the stipulation that it must relinquish future political power or disarm. Hamas has emphasized its desire to be included in future discussions concerning the Palestinian populace.
Key mediators, including Qatar and Egypt, welcomed Hamas’s response, while officials from the United Kingdom and France labeled it a significant step towards peace that should be acted upon without procrastination.
A collective representing the families of hostages has appealed to Netanyahu to commence “efficient and swift negotiations,” aligning with Trump’s urgings for an immediate resolution. Recent developments illustrate the complex landscape of negotiations involving multiple stakeholders, as all parties weigh their positions amid ongoing conflict.
