NEW DELHI: The Islamic Resistance Movement (Hamas) announced on Saturday that it has agreed in principle to release Israeli hostages as part of a wider framework to end the ongoing conflict in Gaza, but has called for modifications to the U.S.-proposed peace plan.
In a statement titled “Hamas’ Response to U.S. President Trump’s Proposal”, the group said it had conducted “in-depth consultations” with Palestinian factions, mediators, and allies before forming its official stance.
Hamas said it appreciates Arab, Islamic, and international efforts, including those of former U.S. President Donald Trump, that aim to end the war in Gaza, ensure the exchange of prisoners, facilitate humanitarian aid, and stop the displacement of Palestinians.
“Within this framework, and in a manner that achieves an end to the war and a full withdrawal from the Strip, the movement announces its approval of releasing all occupation prisoners—both living and remains—according to the exchange formula contained in President Trump’s proposal,” the statement read.
However, Hamas insisted that the exchange must occur under “necessary field conditions” and affirmed its readiness to enter negotiations through mediators to finalize the details.
The group also reaffirmed its willingness to hand over the administration of Gaza to a Palestinian body of independents (technocrats), based on national consensus and supported by Arab and Islamic countries.
At the same time, Hamas emphasized that other issues in the U.S. plan—particularly those concerning the future status of Gaza and the rights of the Palestinian people—must be addressed collectively within a “comprehensive Palestinian national framework.”
“Hamas will be included and will contribute with full responsibility,” the statement concluded.
The response marks one of Hamas’s clearest public acknowledgments of willingness to negotiate a ceasefire and prisoner exchange, while maintaining its demand for a full Israeli withdrawal and adherence to international resolutions safeguarding Palestinian rights.
