Hamas Consents to Release All Hostages While Seeking Further Negotiations on Trump Plan Details

Hamas Responds to Trump Peace Plan, Signaling Potential for Hostage Release and Gaza Shift

October 3, 2025 – 23:54 – After days of mounting tension in the Gaza Strip and following a direct appeal from U.S. President Donald Trump, Hamas has issued its response to the White House peace plan. The plan, previously approved by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and backed by key mediators Egypt and Qatar, has been met with a qualified acceptance from the Islamist group.

Hamas has agreed to some of the 20 points outlined in the Trump Plan, demonstrating a willingness to negotiate on contentious issues while voicing reservations about others deemed unfeasible. However, the most notable development lies in President Trump’s interpretation of the response. Dismissing interpretations of a conditional “yes, but,” Trump characterized Hamas’ statement as an indication of readiness for “lasting peace.”

In a statement released moments after receiving Hamas’ response, Trump urged Israel to “instantly stop the bombing of Gaza so that we can free the hostages safely and quickly.” He emphasized the current danger to hostage recovery efforts, stating, “Right now, it is too hazardous to do it.We are already negotiating the details to be resolved.”

Crucially, Hamas has indicated a willingness to release all hostages, both living and deceased, held since the October 7, 2023 attack, in exchange for the release of Palestinian prisoners. Moreover,the group has signaled a potential willingness to relinquish control of the Gaza Strip,a territory it has administered as 2007 – a position previously expressed but now formally offered within the framework of negotiations.

The coming hours and days will be critical as details are ironed out and the possibility of a lasting peace, and the safe return of hostages, moves closer to reality.

What are the potential implications of linking the hostage release to revisions of the Trump Plan for the long-term stability of the region?

Hostage Release Agreement: A Breakthrough in gaza Conflict?

In a stunning development,Hamas has officially consented to the unconditional release of all remaining hostages held in Gaza. This landmark agreement, brokered through intensive negotiations involving Qatar, Egypt, and the United States, marks a notable turning point in the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict. However, the release is contingent upon further discussions regarding the details of a revised peace plan reportedly based on former President Donald Trump’s earlier proposals. This development introduces a new layer of complexity to the situation, shifting the focus from immediate humanitarian concerns to long-term political solutions. The terms of the hostage release are expected to be phased, with initial releases beginning within 72 hours, prioritizing women, children, and the elderly.

The Trump plan: Revisiting the Framework

The re-emergence of the Trump Plan as a central negotiation point is noteworthy. While the original plan, unveiled in 2020, was largely rejected by Palestinian leadership, reports suggest significant modifications are being considered. Key elements of the original plan included:

* Land Swaps: Proposals for territorial adjustments, possibly involving parts of Israel and Egypt.

* Recognition of Israeli Sovereignty: Full recognition of Israel’s sovereignty over jerusalem and the Golan Heights.

* Economic Investment: A substantial economic investment package for the Palestinian territories, contingent on peace.

* Demilitarization of Gaza: Complete demilitarization of the Gaza Strip.

The current negotiations are reportedly focusing on revising the economic components and addressing Palestinian concerns regarding sovereignty and territorial integrity. Hamas is seeking guarantees regarding the future status of Jerusalem and the right of return for Palestinian refugees – issues that proved insurmountable obstacles in previous negotiations.

Key Negotiating Points & Sticking Points

Several critical issues remain under discussion.These include:

* Guarantees for Palestinian Statehood: Hamas is demanding internationally recognized guarantees for the establishment of a viable Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital.

* Release of Palestinian Prisoners: A reciprocal release of Palestinian prisoners held in Israeli jails is a key demand. The number and identity of prisoners remain a contentious point.

* Security Arrangements: Israel is seeking robust security arrangements to prevent future attacks from Gaza, including international monitoring and verification mechanisms.

* The Role of International Actors: The involvement of key international actors, including the United Nations, the European Union, and Arab states, is crucial for ensuring the long-term sustainability of any agreement.

Implications for Regional Stability

The potential for a complete peace agreement has significant implications for regional stability. A successful resolution coudl:

* De-escalate Tensions: Reduce tensions between Israel and Hamas, potentially leading to a lasting ceasefire.

* Foster Regional Cooperation: Encourage greater regional cooperation on issues such as counter-terrorism and economic development.

* Address humanitarian Crisis: Alleviate the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, providing much-needed aid and reconstruction assistance.

* Strengthen US Influence: Reassert US influence in the Middle East as a key mediator and peace broker.

However, the path to peace remains fraught with challenges.Opposition from hardliners on both sides, as well as potential spoilers in the region, could derail the negotiations.

The Role of Yasser Abu Shabaab & Internal Hamas Dynamics

Recent reports, including a detailed profile by le Sunday Times regarding Yasser Abu Shabaab, Hamas’s internal opponent, highlight the complex power dynamics within the organization.Abu shabaab’s opposition to the current leadership’s hardline stance may have contributed to the willingness to negotiate the hostage release. Understanding these internal pressures is crucial for interpreting Hamas’s motivations and predicting its future actions. The article suggests Abu Shabaab’s influence is growing, potentially signaling a shift towards a more pragmatic approach within Hamas. This internal struggle could influence the outcome of the Trump Plan negotiations.

Potential Benefits of a Revised Trump Plan

A successfully negotiated, revised trump Plan could offer several benefits:

* Economic Growth: Significant economic investment in the Palestinian territories could stimulate growth and create jobs.

* Improved Living Conditions: Improved living conditions in Gaza could reduce desperation and prevent future radicalization.

* Enhanced Security: Robust security arrangements could protect both Israelis and Palestinians from violence.

* Political Stability: A lasting peace agreement could provide a foundation for long-term political stability in the region.

Practical Considerations for Implementation

Implementing any peace agreement will require careful planning and execution.Key considerations include:

1. Establishing a Joint Implementation Committee: A joint committee comprising representatives from Israel, Palestine, and international observers should be established to oversee the implementation process.
2. Developing a Phased implementation plan: A phased implementation plan with clear timelines and benchmarks should be developed to ensure accountability and openness.
3. Providing Adequate Funding: Adequate funding should be secured from international donors to support reconstruction and development efforts.
4. Addressing Security concerns: Robust security arrangements should be put in place to prevent violence and ensure the safety of