Hamas announced Friday that it is prepared to release its remaining Israeli hostages under a ceasefire plan proposed by President Donald Trump, potentially marking a turning point in the Gaza conflict.
However, the group signaled it wants to negotiate key aspects of the plan, raising uncertainty about whether its response will satisfy Israeli demands.
President Trump, who unveiled the 20-point proposal earlier in the week, said he believes Hamas is “ready for a lasting PEACE” and urged Israel to “immediately stop the bombing of Gaza.”
The ceasefire plan calls for Hamas to release all remaining hostages within 72 hours of an agreement. In return, Israel would free approximately 250 Palestinian prisoners serving life sentences and 1,700 others detained during the war.
Under the proposal, Israeli forces would withdraw to designated lines, and international aid would flow into Gaza. Long-term provisions include replacing Hamas rule with a technocratic Palestinian committee overseen by a “Board of Peace” chaired by Trump and involving former British Prime Minister Tony Blair.
Hamas members who disarm and commit to peaceful coexistence would receive amnesty, while others could leave Gaza under safe passage.
The group also expressed willingness to transfer Gaza’s administration to a Palestinian body of independent technocrats, but did not clarify whether it would relinquish political influence or accept the proposal’s demand to disarm.
An estimated 20 Israeli captives remain alive in Gaza, along with the bodies of about 25 others.
The United States and Arab allies would deploy an international force to train a Palestinian police unit for long-term security. Opposition leader Yair Lapid urged Israel to join Trump-led negotiations and offered political support to Netanyahu.
The Israeli government has not issued a formal response, though Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had previously agreed to the framework. His reaction may be complicated by internal political pressures from his right-wing coalition.
The war has claimed over 64,000 lives in Gaza and triggered a humanitarian crisis. Trump set a Sunday deadline for Hamas to accept the deal, warning of intensified military action if rejected. Families of hostages expressed cautious hope, with many urging leaders not to miss this opportunity for peace.
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