Trump Sets Deadline for Hamas to Accept Peace Plan or Face Consequences

President Donald Trump has issued a stern ultimatum to Hamas, demanding the militant group accept a proposed peace agreement for Gaza within a timeframe of “three or four days.” If Hamas declines to sign the American-brokered proposal, Trump warned that the consequences would be severe, stating they would “pay in hell” if they reject the comprehensive 20-point plan. This aggressive stance marks a pivotal moment in efforts to resolve the ongoing conflict in the region.

The peace initiative has garnered significant backing from Israel and a positive reception from the Palestinian Authority, which is poised to take control of Gaza following a potential resolution. Multiple Arab and Muslim leaders have also expressed support for the plan, despite ongoing concerns surrounding last-minute modifications advocated by Israeli Prime Minister Benyamin Netanyahu.

As discussions unfold, Qatar has played a crucial role as a mediator, leading to delays in the plan’s announcement. Nevertheless, the White House proceeded with its publication, urging regional powers to endorse the agreement.

When pressed about the deadline for Hamas’s decision, Trump stated, “We’re going to do about three or four days; we’ll see how it is.” He emphasized that all relevant parties, including Arab and Muslim nations, along with Israel, are aligned with the proposal, adding, “We’re just waiting for Hamas.”

The plan calls for Hamas to surrender its weapons, release all hostages within 72 hours, and relinquish its governing authority in Gaza. Trump reiterated the limited room for negotiation, asserting, “We have one signature that we need and that signature will pay in hell if they don’t sign.”

During a gathering with U.S. military leaders at Quantico, Virginia, Trump further indicated that he considers the peace plan a significant achievement, hinting at the possibility of receiving a Nobel Peace Prize. “Will you get the Nobel prize? Absolutely not,” he remarked. “They’ll give it to a guy that didn’t do a damn thing.”

The proposed agreement outlines a phased Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, the establishment of a transitional authority, and the potential involvement of Sir Tony Blair in overseeing the plan. Trump has ruled out American troop participation in the newly suggested International Stabilization Force (ISF), which would assist Palestinian police in maintaining order in the region.

The Palestinian Authority has expressed its commitment to reform, viewing this moment as an opportunity to reclaim Gaza and progress toward the establishment of a Palestinian state. In a statement, the Authority affirmed its trust in Trump’s efforts: “The State of Palestine welcomes the sincere and determined efforts of President Donald J. Trump to end the war on Gaza.”

Qatari officials are scheduled to engage in discussions with Hamas and Turkey regarding the plan. Majed al-Ansari, a spokesperson for Qatar’s foreign ministry, conveyed optimism about the negotiations, stating, “It is still too early to speak about responses but we are truly optimistic that this plan is comprehensive.”

Hamas has initiated discussions among its leadership both within Palestine and abroad. A source indicated that these discussions may take several days due to the complexities involved. Trump concluded with a stark warning: “Hamas is either going to be doing it or not, and if it’s not, it’s going to be a very sad end.”

As the deadline approaches, the international community watches closely, aware that the outcome could significantly impact the future of Gaza and the broader Middle East peace process.