Israel has reportedly halted its Gaza City offensive, which was launched in September, following a call from US President Donald Trump to stop strikes against the enclave. The move is part of Trump’s proposed peace plan, which aims to end the war and free hostages held by Hamas.
According to Israeli Army Radio and public broadcaster Kan, the order to halt the offensive came after Trump’s request. Under the plan, Hamas must release all remaining hostages within 72 hours of Israel suspending military operations in Gaza and withdrawing its troops to an agreed-upon line. Both Israel and Hamas have expressed readiness for a prisoner swap, although Israel has not officially addressed Trump’s call to halt strikes on Gaza.
The US government has instructed Israel to reduce its operations in Gaza to a minimum, with troops on the ground limited to defensive maneuvers. Despite the reduction in operations, the Israeli army has stated that the area north of Wadi Gaza, including Gaza City, is still considered a dangerous combat zone. Residents have been advised to move south, as attempts to return to the area pose a significant risk.
Aerial attacks across Gaza continued on Saturday, although they were less intense than before. At least 20 people have been killed by Israeli attacks across the enclave since dawn. Negotiations between Israeli and US officials on Trump’s plan are expected to take place soon.
Trump’s peace plan includes the release of 250 Palestinian prisoners serving life sentences and 1,700 detained after October 7, 2023. Following the prisoner swap, a transitional government is expected to be established in Gaza, which will be apolitical and free from Hamas influence. The goal is to create a deradicalized, terror-free zone that does not pose a threat to its neighbors.
The development comes as part of broader efforts to resolve the conflict between Israel and Hamas. The situation in Gaza remains volatile, with civilians caught in the middle of the conflict. The next steps in the negotiations and the implementation of Trump’s peace plan will be closely watched by the international community.
