Trump’s Gaza Ceasefire Proposal Deepens Hamas Divide

The ceasefire proposal presented by US President Donald Trump for the Gaza conflict has led to significant internal divisions within Hamas. The group has fractured into two distinct factions, with political leaders based in Qatar showing support for Trump’s plan, while military commanders operating in Gaza have outright rejected it. According to a report by The Washington Post, the demands outlined by Trump—including the surrender of weapons and the withdrawal of Hamas fighters—have exacerbated existing tensions within the organization, which has historically received backing from various Muslim nations.

Trump has set a deadline of Sunday for Hamas to release all hostages, issuing stern warnings of “hellish consequences” should they fail to comply. This ultimatum coincides with ongoing airstrikes from Israel, which have reportedly resulted in the deaths of at least 20 individuals in recent bombings. Israeli officials have reiterated their commitment to continuing military operations until Hamas completely surrenders.

Internal Discontent and Historical Context

In a recent statement, Hamas rejected the notion of international oversight over Gaza, demanding a full Israeli withdrawal in a single phase. Notably, the group’s silence regarding the weapons surrender clause indicates the persistent divide between its political and military wings. This schism has historically undermined previous ceasefire agreements in 2008, 2012, and 2014, all of which collapsed due to renewed hostilities.

The current situation also highlights perceived double standards by international powers. While China has welcomed Trump’s Gaza ceasefire initiative, it has obstructed United Nations proposals aimed at sanctioning Pakistan-backed terrorist figures, such as Sajid Mir and the Terrorist Resistance Front (TRF). Furthermore, Trump authorized USD 230 million in aid to Lebanon, with USD 190 million allocated specifically for its military. This move has raised questions about whether the US is attempting to undermine Hezbollah, Iran’s most influential proxy, especially as the group has reduced its attacks on Israel in 2025.

International Ramifications and Regional Security

Analysts suggest that Trump’s strategy may reflect a broader attempt to employ a “divide and weaken” approach akin to what has been observed with Hamas. In response to these developments, India has criticized the inconsistencies in global responses to terrorism, particularly pointing to the ongoing threats posed by Pakistan-sponsored terrorism. Indian officials have reiterated their commitment to Operation Sindoor, stating that their efforts to combat terrorism will persist until the threat is neutralized.

The situation remains fluid as the dynamics within Hamas evolve alongside international reactions. The unfolding events not only impact Gaza but also resonate across the broader Middle Eastern landscape, raising critical questions about the future of peace and stability in the region.