Hamas Says It’s Reviewing US Peace Proposal “Sincerely,” While Gaza Residents Doubt Its Promise

A Hamas source told Xinhua that the group has received a U.S.-led peace proposal for Gaza via mediators from Qatar and Egypt in Doha, and is currently studying it “with sincere intent.” An official response is expected later.

The 20‑point U.S. plan, unveiled by President Donald Trump during a joint press conference with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, calls for an immediate ceasefire and the release of all Israeli detainees within 72 hours—if Hamas accepts the deal. Trump asserted that Netanyahu backs the proposal and said several regional actors, including Egypt and Qatar, support it.

Under the plan, Gaza would be demilitarized and governed by a transitional committee composed of Palestinian technocrats and international experts. The structure would exclude Hamas and be overseen by a board chaired by Trump himself. Netanyahu praised the proposal, saying it fulfills Israel’s goals: regaining hostages, dismantling Hamas’s military capabilities, ending its political presence, and ensuring Gaza’s demilitarization. He warned that if Hamas rejects it, Israel would “finish the job” alone.

But on the ground in Gaza, many displaced residents expressed skepticism.

Alaa al-Ashqar, now in Al-Nuseirat refugee camp, said the plan “ignores the real priorities” — housing reconstruction, the return of displaced families, and care for prisoners and the wounded. He argued it centers Israeli security at the expense of Palestinian needs.

Lawyer Ahmed Matar, displaced to Deir al-Balah, called the initiative “surrender, not peace,” criticizing Trump’s shifting rhetoric and claiming the daily reality of bombings, closed crossings, and lack of medical access contradicts promised reforms.

Zakaria Obaid, in Khan Younis, held cautious hope but also doubted sincerity, arguing that political declarations mean little without tangible change in basic services. He stressed that many have lost faith in American pledges, believing they serve Israel’s interests.

Despite assurances in the plan of gradual Israeli withdrawal, expanded humanitarian aid, and protections against forced displacement, Ferro said many see it as a pause that gives Israel breathing space to continue its military objectives. Gaza’s humanitarian crisis intensifies: over 1.9 million displaced, widespread shortages of food, medicine, water, and electricity, and escalating civilian suffering.

The conflict has surged since the October 7, 2023 attack on southern Israel, which killed nearly 1,200 people and spurred Israel’s retaliatory campaign. According to Gaza’s health authorities, over 66,000 Palestinians have died in Gaza as a result.