Hamas Faces Deadline for Gaza Peace Deal Response

US President Donald Trump has given Hamas a deadline of "three or four days" to respond to his proposed ceasefire plan for Gaza. The plan requires Hamas to release hostages, fully disarm, and forgo any future role in governance. Trump stated, "Hamas is either going to be doing it or not, and if it's not, it's going to be a very sad end."

The ultimatum follows a meeting between Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who expressed support for the peace plan. Netanyahu warned that if Hamas rejects the proposal or undermines it, Israel would take unilateral action. He stated, "If Hamas rejects your plan, Mr President, or if they supposedly accept it and then basically do everything to counter it, then Israel will finish the job by itself."

The peace plan includes a ceasefire, the release of hostages within 72 hours, and a phased withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza. It also proposes the establishment of a transitional authority led by Trump and former British Prime Minister Tony Blair to oversee Gaza's administration and reconstruction. An international security force would be deployed, and Gaza would remain under Israeli military presence.

A Palestinian source indicated that Hamas is currently reviewing the proposal. Qatar, which hosts Hamas's exiled leadership, mentioned that the group would discuss the plan with Turkey and other stakeholders.

The ongoing conflict in Gaza escalated after a Hamas-led attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, resulting in significant casualties and hostages. The situation remains tense as the deadline for Hamas's response approaches, with the potential for severe consequences if the group does not comply with the terms outlined by Trump.