Hamas has agreed to release hostages in response to the Gaza peace proposals put forward by Donald Trump. The announcement by Hamas, made on Telegram, also includes plans to transfer control of the Gaza Strip to a Palestinian governing body composed of independent individuals supported by Arab and Islamic nations. This decision follows Trump’s ultimatum to Hamas, giving them until Sunday at 6pm to accept his proposed agreement.
In a social media post on Truth Social, the US president emphasized the urgency of reaching an agreement with Hamas, warning of severe consequences if the “last chance” deal is not accepted. While Hamas has agreed to certain aspects of Trump’s plan, such as relinquishing power and releasing hostages, they indicated the need for further discussions among Palestinians regarding other elements of the proposal.
Hamas expressed readiness to release hostages based on the plan’s conditions, particularly focusing on the release of Palestinian prisoners. The group reiterated its willingness to transfer power to an independent Palestinian body but insisted that decisions concerning the future of Gaza and Palestinian rights must align with a unified Palestinian position and international legal standards.
Notably, Trump’s proposal, which was presented alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, involves immediate release of the remaining hostages by Hamas, cessation of hostilities by Israel, release of Palestinian prisoners, and provision of humanitarian aid to Gaza. The plan also outlines international governance for the territory, overseen by Trump and former British Prime Minister Tony Blair, with no provisions for the future reunification with the Israeli-occupied West Bank.
Hamas officials have expressed reservations about certain aspects of the plan, calling for modifications. Many Palestinians view US proposals as favoring Israel, despite the desire for an end to the conflict. A recent UN inquiry commissioned to investigate the situation in Gaza concluded that Israel is committing acts of genocide against Palestinians, meeting criteria outlined in the Genocide Convention. Commission chair Navi Pillay stated that there is clear intent to destroy the Palestinian population in Gaza through genocidal acts.
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