Gaza, October 4(HS): The Palestinian group Hamas has welcomed US President Donald Trump’s public appeal for Israel to halt its bombing campaign in the Gaza Strip, describing the intervention as “encouraging” and signaling a readiness to begin direct negotiations for a comprehensive prisoner exchange and an end to hostilities.

Senior spokesperson Taher al-Nounou confirmed the group’s willingness to engage in immediate talks, provided Israel halts military operations and agrees to a full withdrawal of its forces from Gaza.The development follows Trump’s recent statements, which come at a critical juncture as both sides have expressed openness to a prisoner swap under international mediation.

Hamas has consistently demanded a permanent ceasefire, the release of Palestinian detainees held by Israel, and renewed access for humanitarian aid as conditions for a lasting resolution.While the exact modalities of any resumption of dialogue remain unclear, Hamas has emphasized its eagerness to achieve a diplomatic breakthrough in the wake of heightened tensions.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar