Hamas has announced its partial acceptance of some elements in US President Donald Trump’s blueprint to halt the conflict in Gaza, such as the release of captives and transferring governance of the territory. However, the group intends to engage in discussions regarding other components of the plan.
According to a document obtained by Reuters, Hamas has formally responded to Trump’s 20-point initiative, with the deadline for the Palestinian militant organization to either approve or decline the proposition set by the US leader until Sunday. It remains unclear whether the terms are open to negotiation, a point of contention for Hamas.
Notably, Hamas did not address the requirement for its disarmament, a condition that has been rejected in the past by both Israel and the US.
In its communication, Hamas expressed gratitude for the collective efforts by Arab, Islamic, and international entities, as well as President Trump’s involvement, in advocating for an end to hostilities in Gaza, the exchange of detainees, prompt humanitarian assistance, and other provisions.
The group conveyed its consent to the release of all captives under Israeli custody, in accordance with Trump’s proposal for a mutual exchange, subject to operational prerequisites for executing the swap. Additionally, Hamas affirmed its willingness to engage in immediate negotiations facilitated by intermediaries to deliberate on the specifics.
Hamas also indicated its preparedness to transfer the governance of Gaza to an autonomous Palestinian body composed of nonpartisan individuals (technocrats) based on a consensus within Palestinian society, bolstered by support from Arab and Islamic entities.
The White House has yet to provide a response following Hamas’ position on the plan, which enjoys support from Israel, as well as Arab and European nations.
Trump’s blueprint outlines key provisions, including an instantaneous ceasefire, the exchange of all captives detained by Hamas for Palestinian prisoners held by Israel, a phased withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, the disarmament of Hamas, and the establishment of an interim administration overseen by an international entity.