New Delhi: Hamas has agreed to release all Israeli hostages in Gaza as part of a US-brokered peace initiative proposed by President Donald Trump, while Israel prepares for the “immediate implementation” of the first stage of the plan. The announcement comes amid ongoing conflict in Gaza, which has lasted nearly two years.
Trump called on Israel to halt its bombing of Gaza to ensure the hostages’ safe and swift release, saying the step marks a “lasting peace” opportunity in the region. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office confirmed that Israel is cooperating with the US on executing the initial measures of the plan. French President Emmanuel Macron also urged immediate follow-up on Hamas’ commitment.
Residents reported continued Israeli airstrikes in Gaza City and Khan Younis despite the agreement, highlighting ongoing humanitarian challenges. The conflict has killed more than 66,000 people in Gaza, with aid restrictions causing famine and widespread destruction.
Hamas’ response confirmed its willingness to release all hostages and Palestinian captives according to Trump’s exchange formula, and to transfer Gaza’s administration to a Palestinian technocratic body supported by Arab and international stakeholders. The group, however, did not agree to disarmament or renounce its political role, leaving key elements of Trump’s plan unresolved.
The US-proposed plan calls for an immediate ceasefire, staged Israeli withdrawal, prisoner exchange, demilitarization of Gaza, and transitional governance under international supervision. Hamas has expressed readiness for further negotiations to finalize the details, while maintaining its role in the broader Palestinian political framework.
The development marks a critical step toward ending the prolonged conflict, though several thorny issues, including Gaza’s governance and Hamas’ disarmament, remain to be resolved.
