Trump issues final warning to Hamas for hostage deal acceptance
- Donald Trump proposed a hostage deal to Hamas, urging them to accept terms for peace.
- Hostages would be released in exchange for significant concessions from Israel, including the release of Palestinian prisoners.
- Israeli officials doubt Hamas will agree to the terms due to fears of losing negotiation leverage.
On September 7, 2025, in the context of ongoing tensions in Gaza, Donald Trump announced a new proposal aimed at securing the release of hostages held by Hamas. This proposal followed recent interactions with mediators, Gershon Baskin and Bishara Bahbah, who conveyed the terms to Hamas. Trump stated that the plan involved an immediate release of all 48 hostages and exchange conditions, including a promise to not resume hostilities during negotiations. However, analysts noted skepticism around Hamas's acceptance due to fears of losing leverage in any potential agreement. Moreover, the deal includes provisions to release thousands of Palestinian prisoners, halt a planned Israeli offensive, and initiate direct talks aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict. While families of the hostages expressed support for the proposal, viewing it as a historic moment with the potential to end hostilities and ensure the safety of their loved ones, Israeli officials remain cautious about its feasibility, recognizing Hamas’s potential rejection of such demands. This situation underscores the complex dynamics between the involved parties, emphasizing the difficult balance between immediate humanitarian concerns and the broader geopolitical implications. The Israeli government, led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, is considering Trump's plan seriously, given the urgency of the hostages’ situation, yet they remain aware of the possible lack of willingness on Hamas's part to compromise on their positions. Overall, while the proposed terms aim for the cessation of conflict and the return of hostages, uncertainties persist regarding whether Hamas will surrender hostages upfront without securing guarantees for their own strategic interests, which include the fate of Palestinian prisoners and the terms of any ceasefire agreement.