UN Welcomes Hamas Statement on Hostages, Urges Ceasefire in Gaza
United Nations: UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has welcomed Hamas’ announcement that it is ready to release hostages and engage with the US peace proposal for Gaza, the UN chief’s spokesperson said.
Spokesperson Stephane Dujarric stated that the secretary-general is “encouraged” by Hamas’ statement and called on all parties to seize the opportunity to end the conflict in the Gaza Strip. He also thanked Qatar and Egypt for their crucial mediation efforts.
Guterres reiterated his appeal for an immediate and permanent ceasefire, the unconditional release of all hostages, and unrestricted humanitarian access. “The United Nations will support all efforts toward these objectives to prevent further suffering,” Dujarric added.
On Friday, Hamas informed regional and international mediators that it had submitted its response to US President Donald Trump’s Gaza peace proposal, agreeing in principle to release all Israeli hostages, both living and deceased, according to Xinhua news agency.
The group also pledged to transfer Gaza’s administration to a body of independent Palestinian technocrats, chosen through national consensus and backed by Arab and Islamic countries.
“Based on the statement just issued by Hamas, I believe they are ready for lasting peace,” Trump said on Truth Social, urging Israel to immediately halt its bombing of Gaza. “We are already discussing the details. This is not just about Gaza—it’s about long-sought peace in the Middle East.”
Earlier this week, the Trump administration unveiled a 20-point proposal following talks with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The plan outlines a ceasefire-for-hostages deal, phased Israeli withdrawal, a demilitarized Gaza, and international oversight of Gaza’s reconstruction and governance after the conflict.
