Trump Issues Ultimatum to Hamas as Gaza Peace Deal Hangs in Balance

US President Donald Trump has issued a stern ultimatum to Hamas, warning the Palestinian militant group that it must "move quickly" to accept his comprehensive Gaza peace plan or "all bets will be off". The warning comes after Hamas indicated it has accepted certain key elements of Trump's 20-point peace proposal, including ending the war and releasing all Israeli hostages. In a Truth Social post, Trump stated: "Hamas must move quickly, or else all bets will be off. I will not tolerate delay, which many think will happen, or any outcome where Gaza poses a threat again. Let's get this done, fast. Everyone will be treated fairly!" The peace plan calls for an immediate cessation of hostilities if both Israel and Hamas accept its terms. Under the agreement, Israeli forces would begin withdrawing as hostages are released, with Hamas required to free all captives within 72 hours of Israel's acceptance. In exchange, Israel would release Palestinian prisoners and detainees, including women and children held since October 7, 2023. Hamas has agreed to release all remaining Israeli hostages - currently estimated at 48 individuals with only 20 believed to be alive - and transfer control of Gaza to an independent group of technocrats. However, the group has not explicitly agreed to disarm or cease its role in governing Gaza, key stipulations in Trump's proposal. The 20-point plan envisions a temporary governing board chaired by Trump and including figures like former British Prime Minister Tony Blair. The framework stipulates that no one in Gaza would be forced to leave, and fighting would cease immediately upon acceptance by both parties. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has approved the plan, though he maintains his opposition to a Palestinian state. The Israeli Defense Forces announced they would shift to defensive operations only in the Gaza Strip and halt operations to occupy Gaza City. Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed Trump's Gaza peace efforts, posting on social media: "India will continue to strongly support all efforts towards a durable and just peace".