Hamas has agreed to release all Israeli hostages both living and deceased as part of the first phase of U.S. President Donald Trump’s proposed 20-point peace plan aimed at ending the Gaza war and restoring peace. The group’s announcement has drawn a positive response on the international stage.
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres welcomed Hamas’s move. In a statement, the Secretary-General’s spokesperson, Stéphane Dujarric, said, “The Secretary-General has called on all parties to seize this opportunity to bring an end to the hostilities in Gaza.” He thanked mediators Qatar and Egypt for their efforts and urged the international community to strengthen cooperation to implement the ceasefire.
Dujarric added that the United Nations seeks an immediate and durable cessation of hostilities, the unconditional release of all detainees, and guaranteed, unhindered humanitarian assistance. “The United Nations will provide every possible support to achieve these aims,” he said.
Following Hamas’s positive response, the office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in a statement that Israel is now prepared to move ahead with the first phase of President Trump’s plan, which would initiate the process for the release of all hostages.
The statement added, “Israel will continue to work in full cooperation with the United States to ensure that the end of the war aligns with Israel’s security policies and reflects President Trump’s vision for peace.”
Amid the severe humanitarian crisis in Gaza, Hamas’s announcement and the U.N.’s response have rekindled prospects for renewed peace talks. Analysts suggest that, after a prolonged conflict, this development could mark the beginning of a new chapter of stability in the Middle East.
Sources: Al Jazeera, Anadolu Agency.