Washington, Oct 4 (NationPress) US President Donald Trump expressed his approval of Hamas' commitment to release all hostages from Gaza, declaring it "a significant day" and expressing hope that the hostages would soon be reunited with their families.

"I want to emphasize that today is truly special. In many respects, it stands alone in history, but thank you to everyone involved, especially those amazing nations that assisted us. We are nearing a resolution, and I’m eager to see how this unfolds. We need to finalize everything with certainty," Trump stated in a video message.

In a subsequent post on Truth Social, Trump urged Israel to "immediately cease the bombing of Gaza to ensure the safe and swift retrieval of the hostages!" He added that he was optimistic about Hamas being prepared for a lasting PEACE.

Trump's remarks followed Hamas's announcement regarding the release of all Israeli hostages held in Gaza and the return of captives' remains.

In a statement via the social media platform Telegram, Hamas affirmed its willingness to commence negotiations through mediators to iron out the specifics of this agreement.

Additionally, Hamas agreed to transfer governance of Gaza to a "Palestinian body of independent technocrats, grounded in Palestinian national consensus and supported by Arab and Islamic nations."

Currently, approximately 48 individuals are believed to be in captivity, with around 20 thought to be alive.

This announcement from Hamas came shortly after Trump issued an ultimatum to the group to endorse his Gaza peace plan by Sunday or face dire consequences.

In his post on Truth Social, Trump specified, "An agreement must be finalized with Hamas by Sunday evening at 6 PM, Washington, DC time. All nations are on board! If this final opportunity is missed, a level of chaos unlike anything seen before will be unleashed against Hamas," he said.

Trump's 20-point peace proposal for Gaza envisions the establishment of a temporary technocratic government, where Israel undertakes not to annex the Strip and no residents will be displaced. If accepted, the agreement proposes an immediate cessation of hostilities, ensuring the return of all captives within 72 hours.

The governance of Gaza would be monitored by a new international transitional entity, the "Board of Peace", chaired by Trump alongside former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair. This board will outline the framework and manage funding for Gaza's redevelopment until the Palestinian Authority completes a reform program to regain control.

Hamas members who commit to peace would receive amnesty, while others could secure safe passage abroad. Security in Gaza would be maintained by regional and international forces, who would also assist in training Palestinian police, with aid flowing in at previously agreed levels. The US would facilitate further dialogue to foster long-term coexistence between Israelis and Palestinians.

The conflict in Gaza erupted nearly two years ago when Hamas launched an assault on Israel on October 7, 2023, resulting in 1,200 fatalities and the abduction of 251 hostages. Israel retaliated with airstrikes and a ground invasion, leading to over 66,000 Palestinian deaths and extensive devastation across Gaza.