Donald Trump urged Israel to halt strikes on Gaza after Hamas partly accepted his peace initiative.
Hamas said it would free hostages and hand authority to other Palestinians while consulting on remaining terms.
Trump welcomed Hamas’ response, declaring: “I believe they are ready for a lasting peace.”
He insisted Israel must stop bombing Gaza immediately to allow hostages to leave safely and quickly.
Trump announced ongoing talks and stressed that details must still be resolved.
Leaders and Mediators React to Trump’s Proposal
Trump later shared a celebratory video thanking Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Egypt, Turkey and other supporters.
He called the development a “big day” but said final agreements must be secured in writing.
Benjamin Netanyahu responded that Israel stood ready for the “first stage,” apparently referencing hostage releases.
His office reaffirmed Israel’s intent to end the war under previously stated principles, avoiding Hamas’ conditions.
Egypt and Qatar welcomed progress, promising to continue brokering discussions between all parties.
UN chief António Guterres urged both sides to seize the opportunity to stop Gaza’s war.
France’s President Emmanuel Macron wrote online that a ceasefire and hostage release “are within reach.”
Contentious Issues and Unresolved Demands Remain
Israel’s hostage families demanded Netanyahu negotiate swiftly, warning delay risks irreversible harm.
Hamas insisted Palestinians decide Gaza’s future through consensus with other factions and international law.
It avoided mention of disarming, a central Israeli requirement embedded in Trump’s plan.
Trump’s proposal ordered Hamas to release 48 hostages within three days, including around 20 alive.
The plan also demanded Hamas surrender power and weapons in exchange for Israel’s withdrawal.
Israel would free hundreds of Palestinian prisoners, allow aid, and enable Gaza’s reconstruction.
The plan rejected relocating Gaza’s population and placed the territory under international governance.
Trump and former British Prime Minister Tony Blair would oversee Gaza’s administration, excluding West Bank reunification.
