Israel has paused its plan to seize Gaza City after Hamas responded positively to President Trump’s peace initiative. According to U.S. and Israeli media, Israel will now shift its operations from offense to defense within the Gaza Strip. This marks the start of the first phase of Trump’s proposed peace plan. The decision came soon after Hamas expressed willingness to release hostages under the terms of the plan.
The Israeli army confirmed the move following a top-level meeting led by the Chief of Staff. Senior officials from intelligence, operations, and planning departments attended. The Chief ordered preparations to begin for the hostage release process. He also instructed that all military capabilities be directed to the Southern Command to ensure troop safety during this transition.
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Families of Israeli hostages welcomed Trump’s statement but urged Prime Minister Netanyahu to begin immediate talks. They called for swift action to bring their loved ones home. Meanwhile, the Israeli Prime Minister’s office said it is fully committed to the first phase of the plan. It emphasizeed that ongoing efforts align with President Trump’s vision to end the war.
World leaders also responded positively. The British Prime Minister praised Hamas’ acceptance of the U.S. proposal, calling it a major step toward peace. He urged both sides to act quickly and seize this opportunity. Germany’s Chancellor stressed the urgent need for hostage release and disarmament of Hamas. He called it the best chance for peace in nearly two years. France’s President Macron also pushed for fast action and vowed support for peace efforts.
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The United Nations welcomed Hamas’ response as well. A spokesperson said Secretary-General António Guterres is encouraged by this development. He urged all parties to take advantage of this opportunity to end the conflict in Gaza. As momentum goes on, global leaders are watching closely to see if this fragile path to peace can hold.