The response creates a diplomatic stalemate, with the U.S. and Israel now needing to decide if they will engage in more talks. (Image: File)
Hamas has broken its silence on U.S. President Donald Trump's proposed peace plan for Gaza, offering a mixed response just days before a critical deadline. In a statement seen by Reuters, the group expressed appreciation for the international efforts but carefully avoided agreeing to the plan's most challenging demands. As the war nears its two-year anniversary, the viability of the ceasefire proposal is questionable due to this partial acceptance, which opens the door for a new phase of intricate diplomacy.
Hamas stated it "appreciates the Arab, Islamic, and international efforts, as well as the efforts of U.S. President Donald Trump." The group formally announced its "approval of releasing all occupation prisoners — both living and remains — according to the exchange formula contained in President Trump’s proposal." This marks a significant concession, agreeing in principle to release all Israeli hostages, both alive and deceased. In a step that might lead to a new system of government, the group also indicated that it was prepared to turn over control of Gaza to a group of autonomous Palestinian technocrats.
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Crucially, the Hamas response sidestepped the core demands of disarmament and a staged Israeli withdrawal. The statement did not mention agreeing to disarm and demilitarize Gaza, a central pillar of the Trump-Netanyahu plan that the group has historically rejected. Furthermore, a senior Hamas official told Al Jazeera that the group would not disarm before Israel's occupation ends. Additionally, the organization insisted on an immediate and complete Israeli withdrawal from the enclave, rejecting the suggested gradual exit.
The path forward remains unclear, as Hamas explicitly stated its desire for further talks. The group affirmed its readiness to "immediately enter, through the mediators, into negotiations to discuss the details." It is now up to the United States and Israel to decide if they are willing to engage in these further negotiations on the plan's terms. The White House had earlier urged Hamas to accept the proposal outright or face "grave consequences," suggesting that this conditional acceptance may not be sufficient.
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The United Nations has expressed strong support for the diplomatic opening created by the proposal. U.N. aid chief Tom Fletcher called Trump's initiative a "window of opportunity," stating they are "ready and eager to act." The plan calls for aid to be distributed by neutral international groups, with the U.N. prepared to move 170,000 metric tons of supplies into Gaza. This international support emphasizes how important it is to come to a deal that may support a ceasefire and a significant humanitarian effort.
Disclaimer: This report is based on a Hamas statement seen by Reuters and inputs from news agency reports.
