Hamas Responds to Trump's Peace Proposal: Vague Acceptance, Key Negotiations Ahead

Hamas has issued a vague response to the peace plan for the Gaza Strip proposed by US President Donald Trump and endorsed by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. While partially accepting the agreement, the group has left numerous critical issues open, indicating that further negotiations will be necessary. In a rather optimistic tone, Trump expressed his belief that Hamas is ready for lasting peace and has urged Israel to halt its bombardment in Gaza immediately. The peace plan has been heavily criticized for favoring Israeli interests, imposing conditions that Hamas previously deemed unacceptable. Trump framed the proposal as an ultimatum, suggesting that if Hamas refused to accept it, the United States would back Israel in its military actions against Gaza. The ambiguity of Hamas's response and its willingness to entertain further discussions suggests that consensus remains elusive. In its response, Hamas indicated a willingness to release all remaining hostages in Gaza, contingent upon the terms outlined in Trump’s proposal along with the necessary conditions on the ground. However, it remains unclear what those 'appropriate conditions' entail. Furthermore, the timing of the hostage release has not been specified. Current estimates suggest that around 50 hostages are still held in Gaza, with 20 believed to be alive. According to the proposal, Hamas would need to release the living hostages and return all deceased individuals within 72 hours of the agreement's ratification, in exchange for Israel releasing 1,950 Palestinian prisoners. This issue of hostages is particularly pressing for Netanyahu, who faces mounting pressure from families of the hostages. They have accused him of jeopardizing their safety with ongoing military operations and questioned whether he is prioritizing his political interests over efforts to secure their release. Another key aspect of the agreement relates to the governance of Gaza post-conflict. Hamas has expressed willingness to transfer administrative responsibilities to a Palestinian body of independent technocrats, aiming for broad consensus among Palestinians and support from Arab and Muslim nations. This statement, however, lacks specificity regarding whether Hamas would relinquish its political control as laid out in Trump’s proposal. The peace plan envisions that Gaza would be overseen by a technocratic Palestinian commission, monitored by a 'Peace Council' headed by Trump himself. This council, which would also include international leaders like former British Prime Minister Tony Blair, would hold the real decision-making power until the Palestinian Authority, which governs parts of the West Bank, can assume control of Gaza. Notably absent from Hamas's response are references to crucial requirements of the proposed agreement, including the disarmament of the group and the demilitarization of the Gaza Strip. Trump acknowledged that the agreement remains in flux, stating in a video message that while it is a promising day, the outcome is yet uncertain. Additionally, a statement from Netanyahu’s office suggests preparations are underway in Israel for the potential release of hostages. Meanwhile, Israel has intensified its military operations in Gaza, with a particular focus on the northern city, a densely populated area that has suffered extensive destruction during the conflict. Reports indicate that many buildings have been leveled, and conditions for survival in the city have deteriorated significantly. Related Sources: • Source 1 • Source 2