Washington D.C. – In a significant development signaling a potential turning point in the protracted conflict, U.S. President Donald Trump has urgently called on Israel to “immediately stop the bombing of Gaza,” following Hamas’s announcement that it has agreed to key components of his comprehensive peace proposal. This crucial step, viewed as a significant breakthrough, includes Hamas’s readiness to release all remaining hostages and cede governing power, though further consultations are anticipated on other aspects of the plan.
President Trump, who has invested considerable political capital in brokering an end to the nearly two-year war, expressed optimism after receiving Hamas’s response. “Based on the Statement just issued by Hamas, I believe they are ready for a lasting PEACE,” Trump stated on his Truth Social platform. He emphasized the urgent need to halt hostilities to ensure the safe and swift release of the hostages, noting that the current conditions were too dangerous for such an operation.
In response to the evolving situation, Israeli forces have reportedly halted plans to occupy Gaza City and have shifted their operational posture to defensive measures. The Prime Minister’s office in Israel confirmed preparations are underway for the immediate release of all hostages and pledged cooperation with the U.S. President to conclude the war.
A Comprehensive Peace Framework
Trump’s 20-point peace plan, unveiled earlier in the week, aims to bring a definitive end to the conflict that has devastated the Gaza Strip and caused immense humanitarian suffering. Central to the proposal is the immediate cessation of hostilities and the release of all Israeli hostages, both living and deceased, within 72 hours of Israel’s public acceptance of the deal.
In exchange for the hostages, the plan outlines the release of 250 Palestinians serving life sentences and 1,700 individuals detained since the conflict began on October 7, 2023. For every Israeli hostage’s remains returned, Israel is to release the remains of 15 deceased Palestinians. Furthermore, Hamas members who commit to peaceful coexistence and disarm would be granted amnesty or safe passage to countries willing to receive them. The plan explicitly excludes Hamas from any future governing role in Gaza, proposing instead an interim Palestinian executive authority overseen by an international board, potentially chaired by Trump.
Hamas’s statement indicated agreement to release all Israeli prisoners, living and dead, according to the proposed exchange formula, contingent on the fulfillment of field conditions. The group also expressed willingness to immediately enter negotiations through mediators to discuss details, while noting that further discussions are required regarding future governance of Gaza and Hamas’s role within a unified Palestinian movement.
International Mediation and Global Reaction
This diplomatic push has been significantly bolstered by the active involvement of several key regional players. Countries including Qatar, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Jordan have played vital roles in mediating the ongoing negotiations.
These nations have collectively welcomed President Trump’s initiative, expressing confidence in his ability to forge a path to peace. Their joint statements highlight the importance of partnership with the United States to achieve regional stability, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive deal that ensures humanitarian aid, prevents displacement, secures the release of hostages, establishes a robust security mechanism, facilitates full Israeli withdrawal, and rebuilds Gaza with a clear pathway to a just peace based on a two-state solution.
The global community has largely responded with cautious optimism. Leaders from France, Germany, the United Kingdom, and India have lauded Trump’s efforts, viewing Hamas’s partial acceptance as a significant step towards ending the devastating conflict and alleviating the humanitarian crisis that has gripped Gaza.
A Fragile Hope for Peace
The nearly two-year war has resulted in a catastrophic humanitarian situation in Gaza, with widespread destruction of infrastructure and massive displacement.
Hamas’s conditional acceptance of the Trump plan represents a critical juncture, offering a potential reprieve from the bloodshed. However, the success of this initiative hinges on further negotiations to iron out the remaining details and secure full buy-in from all parties.
As discussions continue, the world watches closely, hoping this news marks a genuine shift towards lasting peace in the Middle East, fulfilling President Trump’s stated vision for an end to the conflict and a prosperous future for the region.
Trending developments suggest that while a ceasefire and hostage release may be within reach, the path to a comprehensive and durable peace remains complex, requiring sustained diplomatic engagement and a willingness from all sides to make difficult concessions.
