Despite US President Donald Trump’s demand for Israel to cease bombing in response to Hamas’ readiness to release hostages under a plan to end the ongoing conflict, dozens were killed in Israeli strikes on Gaza yesterday.
Hamas garnered a positive response from Trump on Friday by indicating acceptance of key aspects of his 20-point peace proposal, such as ending hostilities, Israeli withdrawal, and the release of captives from both sides.
However, certain critical questions remain unanswered, including Hamas’ willingness to disarm, a crucial requirement from Israel for resolving the conflict.
Trump acknowledged Israel’s temporary halt in bombing yesterday, despite the death toll of at least 53 Palestinians in Gaza. He urged Hamas to swiftly act on his plan, warning of potential consequences if there are delays.
Efforts in diplomacy intensified following Hamas’ announcement, with Trump dispatching envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner to Egypt to finalize technical details for the hostage release and discuss a long-term peace agreement.
Egypt is set to host delegations from Israel and Hamas to negotiate the exchange of Israeli hostages for Palestinian prisoners, according to the country’s Foreign Ministry.
World leaders expressed optimism in response to Hamas’ stance on the plan, calling for an end to the deadly conflict and the release of remaining hostages.
The Palestinian Islamic Jihad group, backed by Iran, endorsed Hamas’ response, potentially facilitating the release of hostages held by both factions.
The hopeful outlook from Hamas and Islamic Jihad could uplift Gazans who have endured failed ceasefire attempts and humanitarian crises due to Israeli strikes over the past two years.
Israel’s government announced preparations for the immediate implementation of the initial phase of Trump’s Gaza plan following Hamas’ acceptance.
However, reports surfaced that Israeli military activities in Gaza were being scaled back, contrasting with claims from Gaza’s civil defense agency of continued Israeli bombardment and casualties.
The situation has left Gaza residents like Mahmud Al-Ghazi, expressing concern over the escalation of violence despite calls for negotiations to hasten the peace process.
Trump, who has invested significant effort in resolving the conflict, emphasized progress in achieving a peace deal and credited diplomatic support from leaders like Erdogan of Turkey.
Trump expressed confidence in Hamas’ readiness for peace and emphasized the responsibility on Netanyahu’s government to advance the negotiations.
Internally, Netanyahu faces pressure from various fronts, including families of hostages and a war-fatigued public, alongside demands from hardline coalition members advocating for a continued offensive in Gaza.
Israeli far-right Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich criticized halting attacks on Gaza as a misstep, warning against giving Hamas an advantage.
According to Gaza health authorities, Israel’s campaign since October 7, 2023, has resulted in over 67,000 casualties in Gaza, predominantly civilians.
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