People in Gaza have reacted with shock after US President Donald Trump appeared to welcome Hamas's response to his peace plan for the territory. Hundreds of Palestinians flooded social media accounts with questions such as 'Has the war ended?' and 'Is this a dream or reality?'. The rapid developments have left many struggling to comprehend the next steps.
Hamas's carefully crafted statement, thought to be drafted with the help of mediators, offered a qualified 'yes' to Trump's terms for releasing Israeli hostages and possibly shifting governance of Gaza to Palestinian technocrats. However, it withheld a definitive response to many aspects of Trump's 20-point proposal, suggesting the ball is now in Israel's court.
Soon after the statement, Trump expressed his belief that Hamas was ready for peace and urged Israel to halt bombings in Gaza. Responses from Palestinians varied widely, reflecting hope, suspicion, and fears of potential traps set by Israel. Activist Ibrahim Fares warned against premature optimism, reminding others that negotiations are fraught with complexity and details.
The response was notably direct, with Hamas affirming various terms while also appealing to Trump's ego. However, skepticism persists among some critics who view the move as a means for Hamas to ensure its own survival rather than a genuine pursuit of peace.
As the region stands at a critical junction, Palestinians are left to ponder whether the latest developments might lead to a true resolution of the ongoing conflict.
Hamas's carefully crafted statement, thought to be drafted with the help of mediators, offered a qualified 'yes' to Trump's terms for releasing Israeli hostages and possibly shifting governance of Gaza to Palestinian technocrats. However, it withheld a definitive response to many aspects of Trump's 20-point proposal, suggesting the ball is now in Israel's court.
Soon after the statement, Trump expressed his belief that Hamas was ready for peace and urged Israel to halt bombings in Gaza. Responses from Palestinians varied widely, reflecting hope, suspicion, and fears of potential traps set by Israel. Activist Ibrahim Fares warned against premature optimism, reminding others that negotiations are fraught with complexity and details.
The response was notably direct, with Hamas affirming various terms while also appealing to Trump's ego. However, skepticism persists among some critics who view the move as a means for Hamas to ensure its own survival rather than a genuine pursuit of peace.
As the region stands at a critical junction, Palestinians are left to ponder whether the latest developments might lead to a true resolution of the ongoing conflict.
