In a stunning reversal, Hamas has bowed to intense international pressure, announcing its acceptance of key terms within Donald Trump’s Gaza peace plan. The group confirmed on Saturday that it would release all Israeli hostages and is prepared to enter immediate negotiations for a permanent ceasefire and the complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from Palestinian territories.
This major shift comes on the heels of a direct and severe threat from Trump, who issued a Sunday deadline for acceptance of the 20-point proposal. The former president had warned that “all hell” would break out if the deal was rejected, a high-pressure tactic that appears to have forced Hamas’s hand and broken the diplomatic deadlock that has plagued previous efforts.
As part of its agreement, Hamas has also approved a roadmap for the future governance of Gaza. The group’s statement outlined its acceptance of a plan to transfer administrative duties to a “Palestinian body of independents (technocrats).” This move is intended to create a stable, non-partisan government structure supported by a coalition of Arab and Islamic nations, addressing a key Israeli and international concern.
The acceptance, however, is not unconditional. Hamas’s statement carefully noted that other elements of the plan, particularly those dealing with the long-term political future of Gaza and Palestinian rights, are subject to further discussion. These issues, the group insisted, must be resolved through a unified Palestinian position and in accordance with international law, signaling that difficult negotiations still lie ahead.
Upon receiving the news, Trump immediately called for an end to Israeli airstrikes. “Based on the Statement just issued by Hamas, I believe they are ready for a lasting PEACE,” he wrote, urging Israel to stop its bombing campaign to facilitate the safe recovery of the hostages. This public directive now puts the onus on Israel to reciprocate and move the peace process forward.