Hamas Agrees to Conditions for Hostage Release, Trump Sets Deadline

Hamas has indicated its willingness to release all Israeli hostages, alive or deceased, under conditions set forth by U.S. President Donald Trump. According to Reuters, this potential agreement is contingent upon the acceptance of Trump’s recent peace proposal, which has garnered a mixed response from various stakeholders involved in the ongoing conflict.

Trump’s Proposal and Ultimatum

On Friday, Trump announced that Hamas must agree to the proposed peace deal by Sunday evening at 18:00 Washington, D.C. time. He emphasized the urgency of the situation, threatening a significant military escalation if an agreement is not reached. “An Agreement must be reached with Hamas by Sunday Evening,” Trump wrote on social media, asserting that every participating country has endorsed the proposal. He warned of dire consequences if the agreement fails, stating, “ALL HELL, like no one has ever seen before, will break out against Hamas.”

The proposed plan, presented earlier this week alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, calls for Hamas to immediately release 48 hostages, with approximately 20 believed to be alive. In exchange, Israel would halt military operations and withdraw from substantial areas of territory. Additionally, the plan includes provisions for the release of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners and the facilitation of humanitarian aid and reconstruction efforts in Gaza.

Mixed Reactions and Humanitarian Concerns

While the plan has been welcomed by Israel and many international observers, key mediators, including Egypt and Qatar, have expressed that certain aspects require further negotiation. A Hamas official recently conveyed that some elements of the proposal are unacceptable, although details remain scarce.

The humanitarian situation in Gaza has deteriorated significantly, with reports indicating that the territory is facing severe shortages of food, medicine, and essential supplies. Experts have noted that Gaza City is on the brink of famine, exacerbated by Israel’s military actions and blockade, which have lasted for over two months. Olga Cherevko, a spokesperson for the United Nations humanitarian office, described the plight of displaced families during a recent visit, highlighting the challenges faced by those unable to flee south due to financial constraints.

As the conflict intensifies, Hamas maintains that any hostage release is contingent upon a lasting ceasefire and an Israeli withdrawal. Netanyahu has firmly rejected these terms, insisting that Hamas must surrender and disarm. The situation remains critical as the second anniversary of the October 7, 2023 attack approaches, which resulted in the deaths of approximately 1,200 individuals and the abduction of 251 hostages.

The ongoing conflict has led to significant casualties, with more than 66,000 Palestinians reported dead, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry. This figure, which includes a substantial number of women and children, underscores the ongoing humanitarian crisis and the urgency for a resolution.

Both the Trump and Biden administrations have sought to mediate an end to the fighting while providing military and diplomatic support to Israel. As negotiations continue, the international community watches closely, aware that the outcome will significantly impact the future of peace efforts in the region.