U.S. President Donald Trump has issued a three-to-four-day ultimatum for Hamas to accept a U.S.-backed peace proposal aimed at ending the Gaza conflict, warning of dire consequences if rejected. The plan, endorsed by Israeli and Arab leaders, demands Hamas disarm and proposes an immediate ceasefire, hostage-prisoner exchanges, and phased Israeli withdrawal from Gaza.
Mediation Efforts Intensify
Qatar and Egypt presented the 20-point plan to Hamas after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu endorsed it at the White House. Turkish intelligence will join Qatari and Egyptian mediators in Doha for discussions, marking Ankara's first direct involvement in recent peace efforts.
Hamas Skepticism Persists
While a Hamas official told Reuters the group would review the proposal "in good faith," sources close to the organization criticized the plan as "completely biased" toward Israel. Palestinian officials anonymously noted the proposal fails to address Gazans' rights or end Israeli control of the enclave.
Humanitarian Crisis Deepens
As negotiations continue, UN agencies report intensified Israeli bombardment in Gaza City and critical shortages of functional shelters and medical facilities. Over 4,000 displaced residents rely on 18 operational UN shelters, with only one medical point remaining active in the city.
UN relief chief Tom Fletcher acknowledged the plan's potential to facilitate large-scale aid delivery, while Gaza residents expressed cautious hope mixed with skepticism. "We want the war to end, but not permanent occupation," said Salah Abu Amr, a Gaza City resident interviewed by Reuters.
