Hamas announced it accepts significant portions of U.S. President Donald Trump’s 20-point plan to halt hostilities in Gaza, while calling for additional negotiations and clarifications on several elements.
Under Hamas’s response, it agreed to the release of all captives (both living and deceased) under the exchange formula laid out in Trump’s proposal, provided certain field conditions are met. The group also pledged to engage immediately through mediators to negotiate outstanding issues. However, it refused to accept the “Board of Peace,” a transitional international governing body proposed in the plan, insisting that Gaza must be administered by an independent Palestinian authority.
Following Hamas’s response, Israeli authorities indicated they were preparing to enact the first stage of Trump’s plan. They ordered the military to scale back offensive operations in Gaza. On the ground, observers noted a marked dip in bombardment intensity, although sporadic attacks and military movements continued.
Regional and global mediators expressed cautious optimism. Qatar welcomed the response and said it would coordinate with Egypt and the U.S. to push forward with talks. The United Nations secretary-general also urged both sides to seize this chance to end the conflict.
Key sticking points:
- Hamas did not commit to disarmament, a central demand in the Trump proposal.
- They insisted unresolved portions relating to Gaza’s future governance and Palestinian rights must be determined through consensus and legal frameworks.
- Hamas reaffirmed appreciation for Arab, Islamic, and international efforts, and thanked Trump for initiating the plan.
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