After Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu approved US President Donald Trump’s plan on Monday, attention immediately turned to Hamas’ response. Qatar and Egypt delivered the proposal, and Hamas is now reviewing it.

Key Points of the Plan

The 20-point plan calls for an immediate end to the war. Specifically, Hamas must release all hostages, alive or dead. Meanwhile, Israel will stop military operations and withdraw to an agreed line. Additionally, Israel will release 250 Palestinians serving life sentences and 1,700 others detained after the October 7 attack. Aid supplies will increase.

Importantly, the plan requires Hamas to disarm and give up control of Gaza. A Trump-led committee will take over governance.

Negotiations Underway

Qatari Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani and Egyptian intelligence chief Hassan Rashad met Hamas negotiators. They handed over Trump’s proposal. According to a source, Hamas is reviewing it “in good faith,” the Associated Press reported.

Potential Obstacles

However, Hamas has rejected key points in the past. The group has called disarmament, giving up Gaza’s governance, and accepting anything less than Israel’s full withdrawal “non-starters.” Nevertheless, Trump appears to hope Hamas’ weakened state will force acceptance. Hamas has also been warned that this could be its last chance.

“If Hamas rejects your plan, Mr President, or if they supposedly accept it and then do everything to counter it, then Israel will finish the job by itself. This can be done the easy way or it can be done the hard way, but it will be done,” Netanyahu said.

In addition, Trump said Israel will have his “full backing” if Hamas refuses the proposal.

Why Hamas May Hesitate

For months, Hamas has said the war must end first. Furthermore, Israel must withdraw before the group fulfills its obligations.

So far, Hamas has rejected any deal that removes its governance role. Disarmament remains a red line. The group also refuses to hand over control to the Palestinian Authority or an international coalition.

However, Trump’s plan depends on Hamas stepping down as Gaza’s ruler and giving up its weapons.

Concessions for Hamas

As a concession, the proposal offers amnesty and safe passage to Hamas members who commit to peaceful coexistence and surrender their arms.