**Trump Issues Deadline for Hamas to Accept Gaza Peace Plan** U.S. President Donald Trump has given Hamas a deadline of three to four days to accept a U.S.-backed peace proposal aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Trump warned that rejecting the plan would lead to a "very sad end" for the group. The peace proposal, which includes a ceasefire and the release of Israeli hostages, was announced during a press conference with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Washington, D.C.
The 20-point plan, which has been shared with Hamas by mediators from Qatar and Egypt, calls for the disarmament of the group. An official familiar with the discussions indicated that Hamas would review the proposal in good faith. Following the press conference, Trump stated that leaders from Israel and Gulf states have already endorsed the plan, emphasizing that the U.S. is now waiting for Hamas's decision.
Trump expressed skepticism about the possibility of further negotiations, stating, "Hamas is either going to be doing it or not, and if it’s not, it’s going to be a very sad end." He added that there was "not much" room for negotiation on the proposal. A source close to Hamas described the plan as "completely biased to Israel" and containing "impossible conditions" aimed at eliminating the group.
The peace plan has received support from several Middle Eastern countries, including Saudi Arabia, Jordan, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Egypt. Other world leaders, such as Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, have also welcomed the initiative, urging Hamas to accept the deal and lay down its arms. Albanese stated, "Australia welcomes President Trump’s plan to bring peace to Gaza after almost two years of conflict and a devastating loss of civilian life."
The announcement of the peace plan coincides with an ongoing Israeli ground offensive in Gaza City, which has intensified recently. Many Palestinians in Gaza have expressed a desire for peace but are concerned about the implications of the proposal for Israeli control in the region. Salah Abu Amr, a resident of Gaza City, voiced skepticism, saying, "We want the war to end, but we want the occupation army that killed tens of thousands of us to get out and leave us alone."
As the deadline approaches, families of Israeli hostages and Palestinians in Gaza are anxiously awaiting Hamas's response. Eid Rai, a displaced resident of Gaza City, expressed hope for a ceasefire, stating, "If Hamas does not agree, where shall we go to?" Meanwhile, the families of hostages, such as the Cunio brothers, continue to live in uncertainty, fearing for their loved ones' safety amid the ongoing conflict.
The peace proposal outlines that all remaining Israeli hostages would be released within the first 72 hours of an agreement. Hamas has previously demanded a phased release of captives, citing concerns that Israel might not uphold its commitments. The proposal also includes provisions for humanitarian aid and rebuilding efforts in Gaza, contingent upon Hamas's compliance.
As the situation develops, the international community is closely monitoring the negotiations, with Qatar indicating that Türkiye may join the discussions. A spokesperson for the Qatari Foreign Ministry stated that Hamas's negotiating delegation is studying the proposal responsibly, aiming to bring an end to the conflict. The outcome of these negotiations remains uncertain, with significant implications for both Israeli and Palestinian lives in the region.