Al Jazeera reported that Hamas delivered its response to President Donald Trump’s peace proposal, just hours after Trump had set a 6:00 p.m. ET Sunday deadline. According to the report, Hamas said it is ready to release all Israeli hostages — both living and deceased — under the terms of Trump’s exchange plan.
— Karoline Leavitt (@PressSec) October 3, 2025
Hamas has submitted its response to Trump’s Gaza plan, saying it is ready to release all Israeli captives – both living and dead – in exchange for an end to Israel’s war and the complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from the enclave, as outlined in Trump’s proposal. pic.twitter.com/9sCwJUbbpO
— Al Jazeera English (@AJEnglish) October 3, 2025
However, the statement did not fully concede to other critical demands. For example, Hamas did not expressly agree to disarm, a central requirement of both Israel and the United States. Still, the prospect of a full hostage release could dramatically change the negotiation landscape. (RELATED NEWS: Trump Issues a Grim Ultimatum to Hamas)
What Hamas Agreed To
Hamas’s statement outlined several key concessions. It expressed readiness to enter negotiations immediately, through mediators, to finalize the details of the deal. They agreed to transfer the administration of Gaza to an independent Palestinian technocratic body, based on national consensus and backed by Arab and Islamic countries.
It also insisted that its demands include Israel’s complete withdrawal from Gaza and an end to military operations there. While Hamas accepted some elements, it reserved the right to negotiate others. The omission of disarmament remains a major sticking point.
What Trump’s Ultimatum Entailed
President Trump’s ultimatum didn’t specify whether Hamas had to accept every point of the 20-point plan immediately. Instead, it seems to have focused on critical demands — including total withdrawal, disarmament, and ending hostilities.
By setting a deadline, Trump aimed to force Hamas’s hand. The ultimatum raised the stakes: agree or face “total destruction,” as the proposal stated. The strategy sought to create diplomatic pressure and shift control back to the negotiating parties. (RELATED NEWS: Trump’s Leaked Gaza Peace Plan: A Bold 21-Point Vision for Lasting Stability)
President Trump is optimistic about the outlook:
— Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) October 3, 2025
Why the Hostage Release Matters
Releasing all hostages would mark a major turning point. For one, it could ease domestic and international pressure on Israel to negotiate. It would also shift public sentiment, especially in Israel, where these individuals’ families have been demanding action for months or years.
Moreover, if Hamas follows through, Israel and its backers might feel compelled to soften some demands or extend the talks. The hostage issue has long been among the most emotionally charged elements of any agreement.
Remaining Hurdles and Risks
Even with goodwill over hostages, significant hurdles remain. Disarmament is at the top of the list. Israel and the U.S. insist Hamas must lay down its weapons. Hamas has not agreed to that.
Verification and enforcement present another issue. Who will certify Hamas’s compliance? Which party will monitor disarmament and ensure the deal sticks?
The question of power sharing in Gaza also adds complexity. Transitioning governance to technocrats will not be easy. Local political factions may resist. Israel will also demand assurances against renewed attacks. Without strong security guarantees, leaders in Jerusalem may be reluctant to move forward. Some analysts also note that the timing could be significant. A deal may be tied to the October 7 anniversary of the 2023 Hamas attack, which triggered the current conflict.
Possible Scenarios Ahead
Full Deal and Ceasefire
In the best case, Hamas follows through. Hostages are released, Israeli forces withdraw, Gaza’s governance shifts, and disarmament begins. A long-term ceasefire could follow, stabilizing the region.
Partial Implementation
Hamas might only partially comply — releasing hostages while resisting disarmament or full withdrawal. Negotiations would resume, but distrust would loom.
Breakdown and Escalation
If any party backpedals or imposes unacceptable terms, the agreement could collapse. Israel might resume military action or impose harsher constraints.
Delayed Timeline
Even if an agreement is possible, execution could stretch over weeks or months. Transitional arrangements and security logistics take time.
Why This Moment Is Critical
The hostage issue has been central to public opinion, both in Israel and globally. If Hamas displays willingness to free hostages, it alters moral and political dynamics.
The expiration of Trump’s ultimatum forces clarity. Hamas’s response, partial though it may be, establishes a baseline from which diplomats can negotiate.
This moment coincides with the second anniversary of the October 7, 2023 Hamas terror attack, which ignited this war. Negotiators may use the symbolism to drive momentum.
For the United States and Israel, proving that diplomacy can yield results offers political cover. For Hamas and its allies, agreeing to hostage release without disarming offers a way to claim moral high ground.
Final Word
Hamas’s response to Trump’s ultimatum represents a cautious but notable shift. Although it did not accept all demands, the group’s willingness to free hostages opens a door to diplomacy. The future remains uncertain. The next steps will test whether confidence, verification, and willingness to compromise can overcome longstanding divides.
At the same time, the stakes could not be higher. Both Israel and Hamas face immense pressure from their own populations, international mediators, and regional powers. Any sign of weakness or retreat may carry political costs. This means negotiators must balance humanitarian urgency with political survival. Whether this moment produces a lasting breakthrough or simply another temporary pause in hostilities will depend on how quickly trust can be built and whether all sides are willing to compromise beyond initial gestures.
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