US President Donald Trump announced that Israel must stop bombing Gaza immediately after Hamas conditionally accepted a key part of his peace plan, which is nearing its two-year mark.
- Hamas’s Acceptance: Hamas announced its “approval of releasing all occupation captives — both living and remains” according to the exchange formula in Trump’s proposal.
- Key Condition: However, Hamas immediately added that it would seek further negotiations to discuss the details of the implementation.
- Points of Conflict: The group deliberately avoided agreeing to disarm and demilitarise Gaza, a core demand of the US and Israel. Hamas insists it will not disarm until the Israeli occupation ends. It also demanded an immediate, full Israeli withdrawal, rejecting the proposed gradual withdrawal.
- Israel’s Response: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office confirmed that Israel was preparing for the “immediate implementation” of the first stage (hostage release). Shortly after, the military was reportedly instructed to reduce offensive activity in Gaza.
- Trump’s Ultimatum: The diplomatic activity followed Trump’s ultimatum that Hamas had until Sunday to accept the plan or face “all hell, like no one has ever seen before.”
- Humanitarian Situation: Despite the diplomatic developments, fighting continues, with Gaza’s civil defence agency reporting heavy air bombardment. The UN has reiterated that there is “no safe place in Gaza” for displaced civilians.
