Hamas Accepts Certain Clauses of Peace Plan: The Moment of Truth
A Partial But Conditional Acceptance
On October 3, 2025, Hamas announced its acceptance of several provisions of the peace plan presented by Donald Trump, including the release of hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners and the transfer of Gaza's administration to an independent technocratic body. However, the movement insists that certain points remain subject to negotiation, particularly the issue of disarmament and the future governance of the enclave.
In its statement, Hamas affirmed its readiness to "hand over the administration of the Gaza Strip to an independent Palestinian body" supported by Arab states, while also seeking to clarify other aspects of the plan within the framework of international law. The disarmament section, however, was not accepted in its current form.
International Reactions: Approval, Caution, Skepticism
In the United States, Donald Trump welcomed this response as a step towards peace, calling on Israel to immediately cease bombing to facilitate the release of hostages under secure conditions. He stressed that the plan had reached a decisive stage, while maintaining an ultimatum: if a complete agreement is not finalized, severe measures could follow.
Israel, already a symbolic signatory of the plan, is observing developments with caution. Benjamin Netanyahu imposes his own conditions: a partial and progressive withdrawal of Israeli forces, the evacuation of controlled areas only after the release of all hostages, and the maintenance of Israeli security in certain areas.
In the Arab world, the announcement was met with a mix of hopes and reservations. Qatar, Egypt, and several Palestinian authorities see this partial agreement as a diplomatic opportunity to end the suffering in Gaza. But some critics point out that acceptance without solid guarantees could benefit Israel in the rest of the process.
What to Expect Now?
- Intense Negotiation Phase
The coming hours and days will be decisive: the parties will have to agree on the unresolved points—disarmament, Hamas's status, border, international oversight—otherwise the plan's balance could shift.
- Partial or Symbolic Israeli Withdrawal
We could see localized ceasefires or temporary withdrawals, but Israel intends to retain security leverage. Any total withdrawal is likely to be conditioned on strong guarantees.
- Increased Mistrust in the Streets of Gaza
The civilian population, exhausted by months of bombs, famine, and deprivation, will see this acceptance as a promise to be fulfilled, but the fear of a return to war remains strong.
- Increased Diplomatic Pressure
With Hamas having taken a symbolic step, the international community will have more legitimacy to demand the plan's implementation. Signatory states could impose sanctions or condition their support on effective execution.
- Risk of Military Clawback Clause
If Hamas delays negotiations or rejects imposed points, Israel could invoke the right to resume operations. The plan itself implicitly provides for this scenario of "resumption of war if conditions are not met."
How to Help Palestine?
- Wear a Palestinian keffiyeh — a visible symbol of resistance and support
- Display a Palestinian flag at home or in demonstrations — a strong sign of solidarity
- Support Palestine with Palestinian jewelry — celebrate Palestinian culture
- Wear a Palestinian Jersey — promote sports as a tool for peace.