Meet the Press HED: Meet the Press NOW — October 3
Oct 3, 2025
Hamas has agreed to release Israeli hostages as part of a peace proposal involving President Trump. Insights from former Mideast Envoy Dennis Ross shed light on the implications for the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. The White House's response reveals critical negotiation dynamics and deadlines. Richard Engel discusses the timeline for hostages and the unexpected acceptance of a technocratic governance model by Hamas. Additionally, regional pressures from Qatar and Egypt play a significant role in shaping the situation.
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Conditional Acceptance Marks Progress
- Hamas signaled conditional acceptance of key elements of Trump's plan, notably hostage release and relinquishing control of Gaza.
- The White House views this as progress but cautions many complex details still require negotiation.
Hostages And Governance Are Core Wins
- Hamas committed to hand over all remaining hostages and accept a technocratic government for Gaza.
- It left disarmament and security arrangements open for further negotiations.
Arab Mediators Shifted The Balance
- Arab mediators, especially Qatar and Egypt, were decisive in pressuring Hamas to accept the plan publicly.
- Regional endorsements made it politically difficult for Hamas to reject the agreement.
