By ABDULLAH 
In a dramatic shift in the Gaza conflict, Hamas has offered a measured acceptance of parts of U.S. President Donald Trump’s 20-point peace plan, triggering cautious optimism around the globe. While many hail the move as a turning point in Israel’s two-year offensive, others warn that key obstacles remain.
Late Friday, Hamas announced it would:
- Release all remaining hostages under the exchange formula proposed in Trump’s plan
- Cede governance of Gaza to technocratic authorities pending further negotiation
Notably, the statement did not reference disarmament, one of Israel’s central demands. Instead, Hamas framed its response as a conditional consent, requiring further talks on the remaining components of the proposal.
Israeli media reported that Prime Minister Netanyahu’s office was “shocked” by the development. In response, the Israeli government declared that it would begin implementing the first stage of Trump’s hostage-release plan, while insisting that the broader framework be honored on Israel’s terms.
Qatar praised Hamas’s response and called for an immediate ceasefire to facilitate hostage release and relief for Palestinians. The Gulf nation reaffirmed its support for Trump’s plan.
Both Egypt and Jordan expressed hope that the moment could open doors to a permanent ceasefire and resumed peace talks, pledging cooperation with the U.S. and regional partners.
President Erdoğan welcomed the decision, saying it “opened a window of opportunity for lasting peace” in the region.
President Mahmoud Abbas urged Hamas to commit fully: ceasefire, full prisoner exchange, and formal transfer of governance to unified Palestinian institutions.
PIJ, a hardline ally, backed Hamas’s declaration, stating that the response aligned with positions taken by other militant factions.
Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar hailed the response as “welcome,” demanded an end to Israel’s attacks, and insisted the decision must lead to immediate humanitarian relief and a ceasefire.
Secretary-General Guterres called the development “encouraging” and urged all parties to seize the moment to end hostilities. UN rights chief Volker Türk described the momentum as a “vital opportunity” for lasting peace.
- France (Macron): Called for swift implementation of hostage release and peace commitments.
- Spain: Saw the response as hopeful but warned of unresolved challenges.
- Ireland, Germany, UK: All welcomed the step and urged both sides to act without delay.
- Canada: Supported commitments to release detainees and speedy humanitarian access.
- EU: Commission President von der Leyen endorsed the decision and called for immediate action.
While the global reaction is largely hopeful, several issues threaten to derail progress:
- Disarmament Omission – Hamas’s silence on disarmament could be a deal-breaker for Israel.
- Enforcement & Trust – Executing the plan will require mechanisms to ensure compliance from both sides.
- Remaining Hostages – The identities, conditions, and possible conversion of some captives remain subjects of intense scrutiny.
- Ceasefire Timing – Halting fighting while hostages are released is politically and operationally complex.
- Gaza Reconstruction & Sovereignty – Negotiating who controls Gaza, how reconstruction is managed, and sovereignty issues loom large.
Some Palestinians privately fear this move may be a trap released hostages exchanged under shaky terms, only to see conflict resume. Others view this as the first step toward a genuine ceasefire that ends this longhearted crisis.
After years of failed ceasefire attempts and growing international pressure, this response by Hamas could shift diplomatic dynamics:
- Humanitarian Relief: It paves the way for urgent aid access to Gaza’s devastated population.
- Political Pressure on Israel: Global expectations now demand Israel reciprocate quickly or face isolation.
- Institutional Transition: For the first time, Hamas seems willing to cede governance—but under conditions.
- Global Perception: With major nations publicly reacting, this could become a pivotal chapter in the Middle East narrative.
However, the coming days will be decisive. Will this lead to a sustainable peace, or will the rhetoric collapse under the weight of war realities? All eyes now turn to implementation, trust-building, and whether the world can hold both sides accountable.