Hamas says it agrees to release Israeli hostages but seeks changes to US Gaza peace plan

October 3, 2025

Hamas has agreed to release all remaining Israeli hostages according to President Trump's proposal, but indicates it wants further negotiations on Gaza's future and Palestinian rights. The announcement came after Trump set a Sunday deadline for Hamas to accept his 20-point peace plan, threatening severe consequences if rejected. While Hamas agreed to hand over Gaza administration to Palestinian technocrats, it notably did not address a key demand for its disarmament and political withdrawal from Gaza.

Who is affected

Israeli hostages held in Gaza (48 total, with only 20 believed to be alive)
Palestinian civilians in Gaza, especially those fleeing from Gaza City
Gaza residents facing continued Israeli military operations
Detained Gazans who could be released in exchange for hostages
Hundreds of thousands of Gaza City residents forced to evacuate
Children in Gaza affected by bombing of shelters and schools, as mentioned by UNICEF

What action is being taken

Hamas is agreeing to release Israeli hostages under certain conditions
Discussions are ongoing about details of implementing the peace plan
Israel is carrying out a military offensive in Gaza City and ordering evacuations
The Israeli military is continuing operations in Gaza, with 63 people killed in the 24 hours before midday Friday
Israel is "tightening the siege" around Gaza City according to Israel's defense minister
Hamas is negotiating aspects of the peace plan while accepting some elements

Why it matters

The agreement could end the ongoing conflict that has killed at least 66,288 people in Gaza
It represents a potential breakthrough in releasing the remaining Israeli hostages
The plan could determine the future governance structure of Gaza
It addresses the humanitarian crisis with provisions for "full aid" to immediately enter Gaza
The proposal has garnered support from European and Middle Eastern leaders as well as the Palestinian Authority
It represents a significant diplomatic effort to end a conflict that began with the October 7, 2023 attack

What's next

Trump has called on Israel to "immediately stop the bombing of Gaza" to facilitate hostage releases
According to Trump, discussions are already underway "on details to be worked out"
Hamas has indicated readiness to "begin negotiations immediately" on prisoner exchange and ending the war
If the agreement is not reached, Trump warned of severe consequences for Hamas
Israel's Prime Minister Netanyahu has stated Israel "will finish the job" if Hamas rejects the plan
National framework discussions about Gaza's future and Palestinian rights will continue with Hamas's involvement

Read full article from source: BBC