9 months ago
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While Hamas said it was ready to release hostages held in Gaza under a peace deal proposed by Trump, the militant group wanted negotiations on the details and a say in the future of the Palestinian territory.
Smoke rises during an Israeli military operation in Gaza City, as seen from the central Gaza Strip, October 2, 2025. REUTERS/Dawoud Abu Alkas
WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump said Friday (Oct 3) he believed Hamas was ready for peace and told Israel to stop bombing Gaza, after the Palestinian militant group declared it was ready to free hostages under his ceasefire plan.
"Based on the statement just issued by Hamas, I believe they are ready for a lasting peace. Israel must immediately stop the bombing of Gaza, so that we can get the Hostages out safely and quickly!" Trump posted on Truth Social.
Hamas said on Friday it would agree to some of the terms in US President Donald Trump's plan to end the Gaza war, including releasing hostages, but avoided addressing more vexing issues like disarmament and said it would seek further negotiations.
In a copy of a statement seen by Reuters, Hamas issued its response to Trump's 20...
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