Hamas signals readiness for hostage release, ceasefire under Trump’s plan

Hamas has expressed willingness to take major steps toward ending the Gaza conflict, agreeing in principle to release all Israeli hostages—both alive and dead—under U.S. President Donald Trump’s 20-point peace proposal.

The group has also indicated openness to negotiations on a ceasefire and administrative transition in Gaza, reports Reuters.

In a statement on Friday (October 3), Hamas said it was prepared to engage with international mediators, declaring: “After extensive consultations, we have reached a responsible position. We seek a realistic path forward based on President Trump’s proposal.”

The group conditioned the release of hostages—believed to number around 48, including at least 20 alive and two U.S. citizens—on Israel’s military withdrawal from Gaza and the opening of humanitarian corridors. Hamas also signaled readiness to transfer administrative authority to a national Palestinian body with Arab and Islamic backing.

Trump has set a deadline of Sunday evening for Hamas to accept the plan, warning: “If they refuse, all hell will break loose in Gaza.” The proposal includes hostage release, phased Israeli troop withdrawal, Hamas disarmament, humanitarian guarantees, and the formation of an independent Palestinian administration.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu welcomed the plan as a “suitable basis” but cautioned that if Hamas rejects it, Israel will “finish the job.”

Families of hostages voiced cautious optimism, with one father saying, “We believe this is the beginning of the end. International pressure is finally making a difference.”

Observers note that if talks progress, the initiative could open a path to ending one of the region’s most intractable conflicts and lay groundwork for lasting peace.