Hamas Accepts Key Elements of Gaza Peace Plan Amid Trump Ultimatum Deadline Looms
In a surprise move, Hamas announced on Friday that it has accepted certain elements of the US-backed Gaza peace plan, including releasing hostages and relinquishing power to a Palestinian body. However, the group requested further consultations on other aspects of the deal, sparking questions about how the US and Israel will respond.
According to sources close to the negotiations, President Donald Trump issued an ultimatum for Hamas to agree to the deal by Sunday evening, threatening increased military action if not met. The deadline has raised concerns among Palestinians and international observers, who fear a prolonged conflict could exacerbate the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
The partial acceptance of the peace plan comes nearly two years into the war sparked by tensions between Israel and Hamas. The US-backed plan aims to bring an end to the violence and establish a lasting peace agreement between the warring parties. However, details of the plan remain scarce, with many questions surrounding its implementation and potential consequences.
According to a statement released by Hamas on Friday, the group has accepted some elements of the plan, including giving up power and releasing all remaining hostages. However, other aspects require further consultations among Palestinians, according to the statement. The move is seen as a significant development in the peace process, but its implications are far from clear.
"This is a positive step forward, but it's just one part of the equation," said Dr. Mouin Rabbani, a senior analyst at the International Crisis Group. "The real challenge will be implementing these agreements and ensuring that they are sustainable over time."
The US has been pushing for a peace agreement between Israel and Hamas for months, with Trump himself playing a key role in negotiations. However, the ultimatum issued by Trump on Friday has raised concerns among some observers, who fear it may be too aggressive.
"We're not sure what the implications of this are," said a senior Israeli official, speaking on condition of anonymity. "We need to see more details about what Hamas is agreeing to and how they plan to implement these agreements."
The current status of the peace process remains uncertain, with both sides engaged in intense negotiations. The US has promised to provide significant economic aid to Gaza if the deal is implemented, but many questions surround its feasibility.
As the deadline looms on Sunday evening, Palestinians are bracing themselves for the worst. "We're not sure what will happen next," said a Palestinian resident of Gaza City. "But we hope that this agreement will bring an end to the suffering and violence."
The international community is watching developments in Gaza closely, with many calling for restraint from all parties involved. As the situation remains fluid, one thing is clear: the fate of Gaza hangs in the balance.
Sources:
Hamas statement released on Friday
US State Department officials
Israeli government officials
Dr. Mouin Rabbani, senior analyst at the International Crisis Group
This story was compiled from reports by NPR Politics, NPR News and BREAKING: NPR News.
