Global Leaders Welcome Hamas’s Positive Response to Trump Peace Plan

International reactions poured in Friday after Hamas signaled acceptance of US President Donald Trump’s proposal to free Israeli hostages and end the nearly two-year war in Gaza.

“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 wrote on Truth Social. In a short video, he added that “everybody will be treated fairly” in negotiations over Gaza’s future.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office said preparations were underway for “the immediate implementation of the first stage of the Trump plan” to secure the hostages. Israel would continue working “in full cooperation with the President and his team,” the statement said.

Qatar welcomed Hamas’s announcement, with foreign ministry spokesman Majed Al-Ansari backing Trump’s call for an immediate ceasefire. Egypt said it hoped the move would encourage all parties “to rise to the level of responsibility” and carry out the plan.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres, through spokesman Stéphane Dujarric, said he was “encouraged” by Hamas’s readiness to release hostages and engage, urging all parties to seize the opportunity to end the conflict.

European leaders also voiced support. French President Emmanuel Macron wrote on X that “the release of all hostages and a ceasefire in Gaza are within reach.” German Chancellor Friedrich Merz called Trump’s plan “the best chance for peace” and pledged Germany’s full support. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said Hamas’s acceptance was “a significant step forward” and pressed for swift implementation.

Turkey’s foreign ministry said Hamas’s response “provides an opportunity for the immediate establishment of a ceasefire in Gaza.”