Hamas announced Friday that it has agreed to “some elements” of President Donald Trump’s 20-point plan for Gaza, a proposal unveiled earlier this week during Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s visit to the White House.
While the militant group did not fully endorse the plan, its statement confirmed that it would include the release of all remaining hostages — both alive and deceased — under the terms outlined by Trump. The group cautioned, however, that the process would take longer than the 72-hour deadline included in the plan, calling the timeline “unrealistic under the current circumstances.”
The announcement came just hours after President Trump warned that if Hamas did not agree to the plan by Sunday evening, “all HELL, like no one has ever seen before, will break out.” In a statement posted to his social media platform Truth Social after Hamas’ response, Trump expressed optimism, saying he believes the group is ready for “lasting PEACE.” He also urged Israel to “immediately stop the bombing of Gaza” to ensure hostages can be released safely.
What Hamas Said
In its official response, Hamas stated it would release hostages “according to the exchange formula outlined in President Trump’s proposal, provided that the conditions necessary for the exchange are secured.” Senior Hamas official Mousa Abu Marzouk added that the release process would require more time than stipulated and would involve returning both surviving hostages and the remains of those killed.
The group also indicated it was willing to transfer governing authority over Gaza to a Palestinian body elected through national consensus with support from Arab and Islamic nations. Hamas pledged to turn over its weapons as part of the transition, a major shift from its long-standing stance.
Other issues in Trump’s plan, Hamas said, would be taken up within a “unified Palestinian national framework in which Hamas will participate and contribute responsibly.”
President Trump’s 20-Point Plan
The plan laid out by President Trump and Netanyahu calls for an immediate end to the war in Gaza, with Israel ceasing military operations and withdrawing troops under international supervision. In exchange, Hamas is expected to disarm, return all hostages, and dismantle its military infrastructure.
Among the 20 provisions are:
The creation of a “terror-free” Gaza with no threat to its neighbors.
Immediate humanitarian aid coordinated through the United Nations and the Red Crescent.
Release of hostages within 72 hours of Israel’s acceptance of the plan, followed by Israel’s release of over 1,900 prisoners, including 250 serving life sentences.
Amnesty for Hamas members who disarm and agree to peaceful coexistence, or safe passage for those who leave Gaza.
Establishment of a transitional Palestinian technocratic committee supervised by an international “Board of Peace” chaired by Trump.
Deployment of an International Stabilization Force, working with vetted Palestinian police, to eventually replace Israeli forces in Gaza.
A U.S.-backed economic redevelopment program, including a special economic zone and infrastructure rebuilding.
A political process toward Palestinian self-determination, with Israel pledging not to annex or occupy Gaza.
The plan also calls for the destruction of Hamas’ tunnels, weapons facilities, and governing infrastructure, while offering economic incentives and interfaith dialogue programs to encourage long-term stability.
What Comes Next
The coming days will determine whether Hamas’ partial agreement is enough to satisfy President Trump’s deadline. Negotiations will continue with mediators, as questions remain about the pace of hostage releases and the feasibility of Hamas fully disarming.
For Israel, the plan presents a tradeoff: a complete halt to military operations and a gradual withdrawal, in exchange for the safe return of hostages and the chance to eliminate Hamas’ military presence through international oversight rather than force.
The situation remains fluid, with both sides weighing Trump’s proposal under intense international scrutiny.
