In a decisive move, former U.S. President Donald Trump has issued a final warning to Hamas regarding the peace process in Gaza. Trump insisted that Hamas must act without delay, or the entire endeavor would be jeopardized. He underscored his unwillingness to tolerate procrastination and called for a quick resolution, promising fairness for all parties involved. Trump demanded an immediate decision from Hamas, stressing that non-compliance would render all terms null and void.
Trump acknowledged Israel’s temporary suspension of bombing to facilitate hostage release and the peace agreement’s completion. He cautioned Hamas to either surrender or cease hostilities, assuring that the agreement would encompass both Israel and Hamas.
Previously, Trump had stated that Hamas had until Sunday at 6 p.m. to accept the proposed peace agreement for the Gaza Strip, failing which the militant group would face escalated attacks. Trump appears dedicated to fulfilling his promise to end the conflict and ensure the return of hostages before the second anniversary of the Israel-Hamas war on October 7.
The plan put forth by the former U.S. President to restore peace in Gaza has been accepted by Israel and has received international support. However, key mediators, like Egypt and Qatar, and a top Hamas leader, indicated that some aspects require further negotiation, without providing further details.
Trump stated in a social media post that all nations have agreed to the plan and that if this final opportunity fails, Hamas would experience consequences unlike any seen before. He reiterated his commitment to achieving peace in the West Asia region.
Following Trump’s statement, Hamas accepted some of the American plan’s terms to end the war in Gaza, which led Trump to order Israel to halt its bombing. Hamas stated it would release hostages and transfer authority to other Palestinians, while certain plan elements would be discussed in detail among Palestinians. Senior Hamas officials pointed out significant disagreements requiring further negotiation.
Subsequent to Hamas’s acceptance of select parts of the American plan to end the war in Gaza, the Israeli military announced on Saturday that it would accelerate preparations for the initial phase of the plan. The military conveyed that Israeli leaders directed the acceleration of preparations for the plan’s implementation. An official, who remained anonymous, stated that Israel had adopted a defensive posture in Gaza and would not initiate attacks. The official also confirmed that no security forces had been withdrawn from Gaza.
