Hamas Open to Partial Acceptance of Trump’s Peace Proposal
Hamas indicated on Friday that it might agree to certain aspects of the Trump administration’s peace deal aimed at resolving the conflict in Gaza, particularly concerning the release of living Israeli hostages.
This public statement marks the first significant reaction since President Trump set a deadline for Sunday, warning Hamas of severe consequences if they declined to engage in negotiations.
Hamas acknowledged that while some points of Trump’s 20-point peace plan may require more discussions, there are elements that could be viable. Furthermore, both the U.S. and designated terrorist groups have acknowledged the necessity of responding to Trump’s demands related to disarming and relinquishing control.
In their response, Hamas reiterated its openness to transferring authority to politically independent Palestinian bodies. According to Trump’s plan, local governance would be managed by Palestinian officials under an international “peace commission,” which includes Trump as chairman and features the involvement of former British Prime Minister Tony Blair. The aim is for Palestinian governance to consolidate power in the West Bank.
Hamas also expressed that issues regarding Gaza’s future and Palestinian rights should be shaped according to a “unanimous Palestinian stance,” involving coordination with other factions and adherence to international law.
“Our involvement is crucial and we will bear full responsibility,” Hamas stated.
The Hill reached out to Hamas but did not receive an immediate reply. Requests for comments from Israel and the White House also went unanswered, at least for the time being.
White House Press Secretary Caroline Leavitt shared a photo of Trump addressing the situation in the Oval Office, stating on social media that Trump would soon respond to Hamas’ peace proposals.
Senator Lindsey Graham, a staunch ally of Trump and advocate for a strong Israeli stance, cautioned that Hamas’ conditions suggest reluctance to fully accept the deal. He described their response as a classic “Yes, but,” highlighting that their insistence on disarmament and linking hostage releases to negotiations essentially dismisses Trump’s initial offer.
Trump urged Hamas to fully accept the proposal before the deadline at 6 PM on Sunday, warning that Israel might intensify military actions in response. Trump’s plan, revealed earlier this week, demands that Hamas abandon all arms and enter an immediate ceasefire with Israel. Fighters who wish to stop fighting can receive pardons, while others could be granted safe passage to a third country.
Additionally, Trump set a 72-hour window for Hamas to hand over hostages captured during the October 7, 2023, terrorist attacks, which includes the lives of 20 individuals and the remains of 28 others.
As part of the proposed ceasefire, Israel would also release Palestinian detainees in exchange for hostages, facilitating increased humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip, where nearly two million Palestinians are currently facing dire hardship, severe hunger, and ongoing evacuations.
Update: 5:11 PM EDT
