Gulf nations push Gaza plan; Trump sets Sunday deadline

A consensus is emerging on the need to move forward ‘with or without Hamas’

- BLOOMBERG

Israelis stage a protest against the interception of boats carrying aid for Gaza, in southern Israel

(PHOTO: REUTERS)

US President Donald Trump said he was setting a Sunday evening deadline for Hamas to agree to his plan to end the war in Gaza, warning of stark consequences if the group did not sign onto the proposal.

“An Agreement must be reached with Hamas by Sunday Evening at SIX (6) PM, Washington, DC time,” Trump said in a social-media post on Friday.

Gulf nations look increasingly likely to push ahead with Trump's plan for Gaza regardless of whether Hamas accepts it or not. A consensus is forming on the need to move forward with the day-after plan for the Palestinian enclave, denying Hamas a veto, people familiar with the matter who asked not to be identified discussing ongoing negotiations said.