On Saturday, President Trump celebrated a breakthrough as both Israel and Hamas appeared to back a 20-point peace proposal, while urging Palestinian extremist groups to “move quickly.”
Hamas expressed partial agreement to the deal first outlined by Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Friday.
“I’m thankful that Israel paused its airstrikes to allow for the release of hostages and to finalize the peace accord,” Trump mentioned in a post on True Social.
“Hamas needs to act fast, or things could change dramatically,” he added. “I’m not someone who accepts delays easily. The ongoing situation in Gaza poses a serious threat once again. Let’s get this done.”
During his announcement on Friday, Trump set a deadline for Hamas to accept the terms of the deal, warning of severe consequences otherwise.
Since Hamas indicated partial approval, including a commitment to release all hostages—both living and deceased—Israeli airstrikes have resulted in six reported casualties: four in Gaza City and two in Khan Yunis. However, as of late Friday, Netanyahu’s office stated that preparations are underway for the initial phase of Trump’s plan.
“We are committed to collaborating closely with the President and his team to bring an end to this conflict in line with Israel’s principles, which resonate with President Trump’s vision,” the statement emphasized.
The outlined plan includes Israel withdrawing certain military forces and ceasing further assaults.
If the extremist groups accept the plan, it stipulates the release of all remaining hostages in exchange for 250 prisoners sentenced to life and 1,700 detained Palestinians. An increase in aid to Gaza will also be permitted, given the dire conditions many are facing.
Additonally, the agreement proposes the establishment of a “Peace Committee,” led by Trump, to oversee Gaza. Major reforms will be implemented, with the Palestinian Authority, based in the West Bank, taking the helm in Gaza.
In its initial reactions, Hamas conveyed a willingness to empower independent Palestinian governing bodies. They indicated that more time would be needed to fully assess the proposal.
The plan also guarantees that “no one will be forced to leave Gaza,” and highlights that “Israel will not occupy or annex Gaza.”
Trump’s remarks came as the Gaza Health Ministry reported that around 67,000 Palestinians had lost their lives since the onset of the conflict nearly two years ago, on October 7, 2023.
