Trump Announces Potential Breakthrough in Gaza Ceasefire Negotiations
In a significant development, US President Donald Trump announced a potential breakthrough in the Israel-Hamas conflict, claiming that Hamas has agreed to release all remaining hostages and discuss further details of his proposed peace plan. This comes after nearly two years of relentless war in Gaza, prompting Trump to urge Israel to immediately halt its bombing campaign to facilitate the safe release of the hostages.
Hamas's Conditional Response to Trump's Proposal
While Trump hailed Hamas's response as a step towards "lasting peace," the group's statement was conditional and left out key aspects of the 20-point plan. Hamas agreed to the "exchange formula," releasing all 48 remaining hostages in exchange for 250 Palestinian prisoners and 1,700 Palestinians from Gaza detained after October 7, 2023. They also expressed willingness to hand over governance in Gaza to independent Palestinian technocrats, mirroring the US plan.
However, missing from Hamas's response was any mention of the "Board of Peace," an international oversight committee led by Trump. The group also failed to address the crucial issue of disarmament, a key condition of the Trump proposal and a demand from the international community. Hamas insisted that "other issues" would be discussed within a "comprehensive national Palestinian framework," defying the plan's demand that it have no role in Gaza's governance.
Israel's Response and International Reactions
Following Hamas's response, Israeli leaders reportedly ordered the military to reduce its activity in Gaza "to a minimum," focusing on defensive actions. Despite this, Gaza residents reported continued shelling and airstrikes. Israel's Prime Minister's office stated they were preparing for the "immediate implementation of the first stage" of Trump's plan, referring to the hostage release.
The international community has largely welcomed the development, with figures like Sir Keir Starmer and Emmanuel Macron calling for swift implementation of the plan. However, a Hamas official told Al Jazeera that the group would not disarm "before the Israeli occupation ends," highlighting ongoing disagreements. Some analysts emphasize Hamas may not know the exact location of all hostages, some possibly being held by other groups.
Key Elements of Trump's Peace Plan and Remaining Challenges
Trump's plan includes an immediate ceasefire, the release of all hostages, Hamas disarming, guarantees no one will be forced to leave Gaza, and a governing "peace panel." The proposal aims to provide more aid to Gaza and end the war that has resulted in significant casualties and a dire humanitarian crisis. Despite the potential breakthrough, issues such as disarmament and the extent of Hamas's role in Gaza's future remain contentious.
Thousands of Gazans are seeking clarity on whether the political statements will bring an end to the humanitarian crisis. Despite the fragile progress, significant challenges remain, requiring delicate negotiations to finalize a lasting peace agreement. Trump may be celebrating, but critical discussions on sensitive issues are still ahead.
