European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen expressed optimism on Saturday over Hamas’s response to US President Donald Trump’s plan to end the war in Gaza.
Writing on X, von der Leyen described Hamas’s willingness to release hostages and enter negotiations as “encouraging,” stressing that “this opportunity must be seized” and that an immediate ceasefire and release of all hostages are within reach.
Jordan also welcomed Hamas’s agreement, calling it “an important step toward ending the war.”
Foreign Ministry spokesman Fuad al-Majali emphasized the urgent need to halt Israeli aggression, open crossings for immediate and sustained humanitarian aid, and pursue a just peace based on international resolutions, the two-state solution, and the Arab Peace Initiative.
Jordan affirmed its readiness to facilitate aid delivery once Israel ensures safe access.
Meanwhile, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas welcomed both Trump’s ceasefire announcement and Hamas’s commitment to release hostages.
Abbas praised the US president’s efforts to end the conflict and emphasized the importance of an immediate ceasefire. He reaffirmed that Gaza remains under the sovereignty of the State of Palestine and expressed his readiness to work with Trump and international partners toward a lasting and just peace.
Abbas also announced plans to hold presidential and legislative elections within one year after the war’s end.
Specialized bodies have been tasked with drafting an interim constitution within three months and amending relevant laws to align with international legitimacy and the principles of the two-state solution.
He called on all national institutions to shoulder their responsibilities, stressing that the Palestinian people remain committed to achieving freedom, independence, and the establishment of a fully sovereign state with East Jerusalem as its capital.
The Palestinian leader underscored the importance of comprehensive reform, rebuilding state institutions, and upholding the rule of law and national unity, in line with commitments made at the international peace conference in New York.
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