In a major development, Hamas has agreed to release the remaining Israeli hostages under certain conditions, sparking new hope for families who have long awaited news of their loved ones. According to reports by BBC News and Al Jazeera, the armed group accepted key parts of a US-brokered peace deal proposed by former President Donald Trump.
Details of the Peace Proposal
As part of the 20-point proposal, Hamas has signaled willingness to release all Israeli hostages, both living and deceased, in exchange for hundreds of detained Palestinians. The plan also outlines an immediate ceasefire within 72 hours and the transfer of governance of Gaza to Palestinian technocrats.
Currently, around 48 hostages remain in Gaza, with only 20 believed to be alive. The announcement has brought renewed optimism, though skepticism remains in Israel about Hamas’s long-term intentions.
Israel’s Response and Challenges Ahead
While some Israeli officials see this as a breakthrough, others fear Hamas might be attempting to buy time and delay negotiations. According to Reuters, the proposal notably excludes a requirement for Hamas to fully disarm, raising concerns in the Israeli government.
Former US President Trump hailed the move as a “big day for peace”, urging Israel to halt airstrikes on Gaza to ensure the safe release of hostages. However, analysts caution that several details remain unresolved before a lasting peace can be achieved.
International Reactions
The development has received mixed global reactions. Some countries praised the agreement as a step towards ending the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, while others remain cautious about its implementation. Trump, in his video message, thanked international allies for supporting the proposal and emphasized that this is only the first step toward lasting peace in the region.
Conclusion
The Hamas statement marks a significant shift in the ongoing Gaza conflict, potentially paving the way for progress in peace negotiations. However, whether this deal leads to a permanent solution remains uncertain.
For continuous coverage, follow updates from BBC, Al Jazeera, and Reuters.
