Trump hails Hamas response to Gaza plan as 'a big day'

U.S. President Donald Trump said Friday was “a big day” after Hamas announced it would agree to some terms in his 20-point plan to end the Gaza conflict, including an exchange of hostages for Palestinian prisoners.

Hamas issued its response after Trump gave the group until Sunday to accept the proposal or face unspecified consequences. A copy of the response seen by reporters did not indicate agreement on disarmament in Gaza or a staged Israeli withdrawal, both elements that the U.S. and Israel have sought and that Hamas has previously rejected. Residents reported intensified Israeli airstrikes in Gaza City’s Remal neighbourhood shortly after the statement, as well as strikes in Khan Younis, with no immediate casualty figures.

In its message, Hamas said it “appreciates” Arab, Islamic and international efforts, including Trump’s, and announced approval to release all Israeli prisoners, both living and remains, according to the exchange formula in the proposal, subject to field conditions for implementation. The group said it is ready to enter mediated talks on details and is prepared to transfer administration of the Gaza Strip to an independent technocratic body formed by Palestinian consensus with Arab and Islamic backing.

Trump’s plan outlines an immediate ceasefire, a full exchange of hostages and detainees, a phased Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, the disarmament of Hamas and the establishment of a transitional administration led by an international body. Trump said “everybody was unified in wanting this conflict to end,” adding that “everybody will be treated fairly” if the plan proceeds.

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