Hamas has stated that it accepts several elements of US President Donald Trump’s Gaza Peace Plan. The group emphasized that further negotiations are needed on key issues, including the future governance of Gaza.
The armed group submitted its formal response on Friday, following Trump’s warning that a decision was required by Sunday. The US plan includes an immediate ceasefire, the release of 48 Israeli captives (20 believed alive) in exchange for Palestinian prisoners, the creation of a transitional governance body, and the disarmament of Hamas.
In its reply, Hamas agreed to release all captives according to the exchange formula outlined in the Gaza Peace Plan. The group also expressed readiness to enter immediate negotiations through mediators to discuss the details.
Hamas is prepared to hand over Gaza’s administration to a Palestinian technocratic body backed by Arab and Islamic states. However, it rejected Trump’s proposed international “Board of Peace,” which would have been co-led by Trump and former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair. Senior Hamas official Mousa Abu Marzouk criticized Blair’s involvement, citing his controversial role in the 2003 Iraq invasion.
Trump responded positively, suggesting Hamas is ready for lasting peace. He urged Israel to halt bombing operations so hostages could be freed safely. Qatar and Egypt, key mediators, welcomed the development and confirmed ongoing coordination with the US and other countries. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called the response encouraging and urged all parties to seize the opportunity to end the conflict.
Analysts note that Hamas’s partial acceptance of the Gaza Peace Plan opens a window for negotiations, though the group remains cautious about proposals that could isolate Gaza from the broader Palestinian cause.
Meanwhile, Israel continues its military operations in Gaza. Reports indicate remote-controlled explosives are being deployed to demolish neighborhoods in Gaza City. Since October 2023, more than 66,200 Palestinians, mostly women and children, have been killed, according to Gaza health authorities.
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