Hamas accepted parts of President Donald Trump's ceasefire proposal for Gaza on Friday but indicated that certain elements need additional discussion. Trump responded on Saturday by urging Israel to halt its bombardment immediately, stating that Hamas appeared ready for lasting peace. Israeli officials announced preparations to execute the first phase of Trump's plan and directed military forces to scale back offensive operations in Gaza.
The territory experienced an unusual calm around midnight as Trump prepared to address the situation from Washington. Israeli drone activity, typically constant overhead, was notably absent Saturday morning. Al Jazeera correspondent Hani Mahmoud reported from Deir el-Balah that bombardment intensity had decreased compared to recent days, though smoke continued rising from northern areas and vehicle movement remained audible.
Trump's 20-point framework calls for an immediate ceasefire, prisoner exchanges involving 48 Israeli captives and Palestinian detainees, establishment of an internationally led transitional government, and disarmament of Hamas. The group submitted its response before Trump's Sunday deadline. Israeli media confirmed military officials were readying immediate implementation of the plan's initial stage after receiving Hamas's answer.
The territory experienced an unusual calm around midnight as Trump prepared to address the situation from Washington. Israeli drone activity, typically constant overhead, was notably absent Saturday morning. Al Jazeera correspondent Hani Mahmoud reported from Deir el-Balah that bombardment intensity had decreased compared to recent days, though smoke continued rising from northern areas and vehicle movement remained audible.
Trump's 20-point framework calls for an immediate ceasefire, prisoner exchanges involving 48 Israeli captives and Palestinian detainees, establishment of an internationally led transitional government, and disarmament of Hamas. The group submitted its response before Trump's Sunday deadline. Israeli media confirmed military officials were readying immediate implementation of the plan's initial stage after receiving Hamas's answer.
