Hamas expressing readiness to release the remaining hostages—though conditional and subject to further talks—has brought a wave of cautious optimism to the families in Israel who have waited anxiously for such developments.

In its reply to the United States' proposed peace initiative, the group announced its willingness to "release all Israeli captives, both alive and deceased, in line with the exchange arrangement put forward in President Donald Trump's plan, assuming the appropriate conditions are fulfilled on the ground."

This plan, revealed by Trump at the White House earlier this week, calls for an immediate halt to hostilities, with the release of all surviving Israeli hostages and the return of the bodies of those believed dead within 72 hours. In return, Israel would release a large number of Palestinian detainees.

It is currently believed that Hamas is holding 48 hostages within Gaza, of whom only 20 are thought to be alive.

• Ongoing coverage of the latest developments

• Hamas indicates willingness to release hostages, requests amendments to proposed deal

• Report: Progress and obstacles in Trump’s Gaza roadmap

Another important aspect of the US proposal, which Hamas appears to have accepted, involves transferring the administration of Gaza to a group of independent Palestinian professionals—a notable inclusion, signaling potential shifts in the region's political structure.

Still, the detailed 20-point peace plan contains many elements that Hamas' statement did not address—and the silence on these points is significant.

The most critical omission concerns the demand that Hamas disarm entirely.

Israeli officials are now closely examining the group's message for clarity and intent.

They need to determine whether Hamas' acceptance reflects a legitimate commitment to the agreement’s core ideas or if it’s a strategic move to delay further action while talks drag on.

A particular point of concern in Israel is the final part of Hamas' message, which implies their continued involvement in shaping Gaza’s political future—a stance that is unlikely to be warmly received by Israeli leaders.

Hamas’ response came just hours after President Donald Trump issued a final deadline, urging the group to commit by Sunday night or risk severe repercussions. This quick turnaround has raised doubts among members of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s cabinet.

These doubts have deepened now that the U.S. president has called on Israel to pause its bombing campaign in Gaza.

"Based on Hamas' latest statement, I believe they are ready for lasting PEACE," Trump stated after their response. "Israel must halt the bombing in Gaza immediately so we can safely recover the hostages. It's far too dangerous under the current circumstances."

Appearing later in a video message, Trump called the day a significant turning point, expressing gratitude to the various nations that supported the peace effort.

Nevertheless, there remains a long path ahead before any form of lasting peace can be declared. The president acknowledged that the agreement is far from finalized.

"We’ll see where this leads," he added. "The final details and confirmations still need to be established."