War Nearing End: Hamas Agrees to Ceasefire with Israel, UN Welcomes Decision

United Nations (The Uttam Hindu): In a major breakthrough, Palestinian armed group Hamas has expressed willingness to discuss U.S. President Donald Trump’s peace proposal, signaling an end to the ongoing Gaza-Israel conflict. UN Secretary-General António Guterres welcomed the move, as confirmed by his spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric.

In his statement, Dujarric said that the UN chief is encouraged by Hamas’s announcement and urged all parties to seize the opportunity to end the fighting in Gaza. He also thanked Qatar and Egypt for their invaluable mediation efforts. Guterres reiterated his call for an immediate and lasting ceasefire, the unconditional release of all hostages, and unrestricted humanitarian access, stressing that the UN would support all efforts to prevent further suffering.

According to reports, Hamas on Friday submitted its official response to regional and international mediators regarding Trump’s Gaza peace proposal. The group stated that it is prepared, in principle, to release both living and deceased Israeli hostages.

In a press statement, Hamas also agreed to transfer Gaza’s administration to an independent Palestinian body of technical experts, formed through national consensus and backed by Arab and Islamic nations.

On Truth Social, Trump said: “Based on Hamas’s statement, I believe they are ready for lasting peace. Israel must immediately stop bombing Gaza. We are already discussing details that need to be worked out. This is not only about Gaza, it is about long-awaited peace in the Middle East.”

Earlier on Monday, following talks with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, President Trump had presented a 20-point peace proposal. It outlined a ceasefire-for-hostages deal, the release of captives, Gaza’s demilitarization, and international oversight of Gaza’s reconstruction and administration after the conflict.