Israel Defense Forces began preparing to implement the first phase of a hostage release agreement after Hamas announced its readiness to free all captives held in Gaza. The IDF Chief of General Staff convened a situation assessment on Saturday and ordered troops to maintain high alertness and prioritize safety. The military allocated all capabilities to the Southern Command to protect personnel and respond rapidly to threats.
Hamas stated it would enter immediate negotiations through mediators and agreed to transfer Gaza's administration to independent Palestinian technocrats. The group made its announcement hours after President Donald Trump issued an ultimatum demanding acceptance of his peace plan by Sunday evening. Around 48 people remain in captivity, with 20 believed alive.
Trump's 20-point plan requires Israel to avoid annexing Gaza and bans the forced displacement of residents. The agreement mandates an immediate end to hostilities and the return of all captives within 72 hours after acceptance. Trump welcomed Hamas' decision but called for Israel to halt bombing operations to ensure safe hostage extraction.
Hamas stated it would enter immediate negotiations through mediators and agreed to transfer Gaza's administration to independent Palestinian technocrats. The group made its announcement hours after President Donald Trump issued an ultimatum demanding acceptance of his peace plan by Sunday evening. Around 48 people remain in captivity, with 20 believed alive.
Trump's 20-point plan requires Israel to avoid annexing Gaza and bans the forced displacement of residents. The agreement mandates an immediate end to hostilities and the return of all captives within 72 hours after acceptance. Trump welcomed Hamas' decision but called for Israel to halt bombing operations to ensure safe hostage extraction.
