All Eyes on Israel as Hamas Accepts Trump’s Peace and Hostage Deal

All eyes are now on Israel after Hamas took the dramatic step on Saturday of accepting Donald Trump’s peace and hostage deal. The Palestinian group agreed to release all Israeli captives and enter into a ceasefire, placing the responsibility for the next move squarely on the Israeli government, which had previously accepted the plan.
Hamas’s decision came after a forceful ultimatum from Trump, who had set a Sunday evening deadline for a response. The group’s statement confirmed its readiness for immediate, mediated negotiations on the deal, which includes a complete withdrawal of Israeli forces and a new administrative plan for Gaza.
A key part of the plan accepted by Hamas is the transfer of power in Gaza to a non-partisan, technocratic body. This new government would be formed with broad Palestinian consensus and supported by regional Arab and Islamic powers, addressing a major international concern about the territory’s future leadership.
While Hamas’s acceptance of the immediate terms is a major breakthrough, the group did note that other parts of the 20-point plan require further discussion. Long-term political issues related to Palestinian rights and sovereignty will be addressed in a separate national dialogue, indicating a phased approach to the peace process.
Upon Hamas’s acceptance, Trump immediately increased the pressure on Israel by ordering a halt to its bombing campaign in Gaza. “Israel must immediately stop the bombing,” he declared, framing it as a necessary step for the safe recovery of the hostages and pushing for immediate implementation of the deal.