In a dramatic turn of events, Donald Trump has ordered Israel to “immediately stop the bombing of Gaza” after Hamas agreed to key terms of his peace proposal on Saturday. The directive from the former U.S. president came moments after Hamas announced it would release all Israeli hostages as part of a deal to end the war.
Hamas’s decision followed a severe ultimatum from Trump, who had given the group a Sunday deadline to accept his 20-point plan. The group’s statement confirmed its willingness to free all captives, living and dead, in exchange for a full withdrawal of Israeli forces and a permanent ceasefire, and to enter into immediate negotiations to that end.
The agreement also includes a groundbreaking provision for the future governance of Gaza. Hamas has consented to hand over administrative responsibilities to an independent, technocratic Palestinian body. This new entity would be supported by a national consensus and regional powers, fulfilling a key requirement for long-term stability in the region.
While this represents a major breakthrough, Hamas has indicated that its acceptance is conditional. The group’s statement specified that other parts of Trump’s plan, particularly those concerning the final political settlement for Palestinians, require further internal discussion and alignment with international resolutions. This suggests a phased implementation of the peace plan.
Trump’s swift and public directive to Israel underscores the seriousness of his intent to see the deal through. By declaring that Hamas is “ready for a lasting PEACE,” he has effectively shifted the diplomatic pressure onto Israel to de-escalate and begin the process of securing the hostages’ safe return, putting his own credibility on the line.
