Hamas Describes Trump’s Appeal for Israel to Halt Gaza Bombings as ‘Positive’

Hamas responded positively to former U.S. President Donald Trump’s call for Israel to stop its bombing campaign in Gaza. Hamas spokesman Taher al-Nounou labeled Trump’s remarks as “encouraging” and expressed the group’s willingness to negotiate on a prisoner exchange, end the war, and withdraw Israeli forces from Gaza. This development follows Hamas’s partial acceptance of Trump’s 20-point peace plan, which includes the release of Israeli hostages and a comprehensive ceasefire. While Hamas agreed to release the hostages, it has refrained from committing to disarmament or accepting external oversight of Gaza’s administration—key aspects of the plan.

In light of Hamas’s statement, Trump urged Israel to suspend its bombing to facilitate the safe release of hostages, highlighting the urgency of the situation and the perilous conditions hindering negotiations. Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office indicated support for the initial phase of the peace plan, which prioritizes the release of hostages, although Israel has yet to agree to cease military operations in Gaza, citing security concerns and demands for Hamas to fully engage with the plan’s stipulations.

The international community has reacted positively to these developments, with mediators from Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey playing key roles in negotiations. The United Nations has called on all parties to take this opportunity to resolve the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Currently, the situation remains dynamic, with discussions continuing on finalizing the details of the peace plan and ensuring its effective implementation.