US President Donald Trump has called on Israel to “immediately stop the bombing of Gaza” after Hamas agreed to release hostages and accepted some terms of his 20 point peace plan.
Trump believes Hamas is “ready for a lasting peace” and wants Israel to halt its military operations to facilitate the safe release of hostages.
Trump stated, “Israel must immediately stop the bombing of Gaza, so that we can get the Hostages out safely and quickly! Right now, it’s far too dangerous to do that. We are already in discussions on details to be worked out. This is not about Gaza alone, this is about long sought PEACE in the Middle East.” The plan specifies an immediate ceasefire, an exchange of all hostages held by Hamas for Palestinian prisoners held by Israel, a staged Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, the disarmament of Hamas, and the introduction of a transitional government led by an international body.
Hamas has accepted some elements of the plan, including the release of hostages and ending the war. However, it has not committed to disarming or demilitarizing, seeking further talks to clarify details and address concerns. In its response, Hamas said it “appreciates the Arab, Islamic, and international efforts, as well as the efforts of US President Donald Trump, calling for an end to the war on the Gaza Strip, the exchange of prisoners, and the immediate entry of aid”.
Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office has stated that Israel will continue working with Trump to end the war in accordance with its principles, but differences between the two parties remain. The Israeli military chief of staff has instructed forces to advance readiness for the implementation of the first phase of Trump’s plan, without mentioning whether there would be a reduction of military activity in Gaza.
The conflict has resulted in significant loss of life and displacement, with over 66,000 Palestinians killed and 1,200 Israelis killed since the war began. International leaders, including Egypt, Qatar, the UN, and European leaders, have expressed support for the plan, urging all sides to seize the opportunity for peace.
The situation remains dire for civilians, with heavy bombardment continuing in Gaza City. Trump’s proposal has sparked a mix of reactions, with some hailing it as a potential breakthrough and others expressing skepticism about its feasibility.