A major development has unfolded as Hamas announced its agreement to release all Israeli hostages held in Gaza, including those presumed dead, under a proposed peace plan attributed to former U.S. President Donald Trump. The militant group stated it had engaged in “extensive consultations” prior to accepting terms tied to Trump’s 20-point proposal for ending hostilities in the region.
Hamas signaled willingness to commence negotiations through mediators to finalize the arrangement, with the group emphasizing its readiness to address broader issues such as Gaza’s governance and Palestinian rights within a national framework involving all factions. The Islamic group also expressed openness to transferring administrative control of Gaza to an independent Palestinian body, contingent on its formation via national consensus and support from Arab and Islamic states.
The announcement follows Trump’s ultimatum, which set a 6 p.m. Sunday deadline for Hamas to accept his ceasefire plan, warning that failure to comply would result in “all hell” descending on the group. The deal reportedly includes the release of 48 hostages, with 20 believed still alive. Two American citizens, Itay Chen and Omer Neutra, are among those confirmed dead.
Details about the negotiations remain sparse, but the agreement marks a significant shift in the ongoing conflict’s trajectory. Updates on the situation are expected as further information emerges.