Israel Strikes Gaza After Trump Urges Halt; Hamas, Islamic Jihad Back U.S. Plan

Israel continued airstrikes in Gaza on Saturday, even as former U.S. President Donald Trump publicly called for an immediate end to the bombing campaign. Trump asserted that Hamas was prepared for peace, and urged Israel to halt its campaign so hostages could be safely released.

In response, Hamas accepted key elements of Trump’s 20-point proposal—among them, an Israeli withdrawal, cessation of hostilities, and mutual hostage releases. Islamic Jihad, a hardline Gaza group aligned with Iran, swiftly endorsed Hamas’s position, elevating expectations that the plan might gain broader traction

Conflicting Signals: Bombardment Continues Amid Calls for Ceasefire

Despite the public appeals, Israel’s military launched further strikes across Gaza. Officials noted that Gaza City remained a dangerous combat zone and urged civilians to avoid northern and conflict-adjacent areas. While media reports indicated a slight scaling back of intensity, the continuation of attacks drew criticism from diplomatic circles.

Inside Israel, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces mounting pressure. On one hand, hostage families and war-fatigued public voices demand a ceasefire; on the other, hardliners in his coalition insist military pressure must continue The tension centers on whether his government will fully commit to Trump’s plan or later retract support under political strain.

Rising Hopes, Lingering Doubts

Support for the U.S. proposal poured in from capitals around the globe, with European, Asian, and Middle Eastern leaders calling for swift implementation. Gaza residents, exhausted by years of conflict, watched cautiously. While some expressed optimism, others warned that political will could falter. “What is important is that Netanyahu does not sabotage this … as he usually does,” one Jerusalem resident said.

Key unresolved issues remain, including disarmament of Hamas and the durability of any deal in the face of domestic opposition. Meanwhile, Gaza’s health ministry reported at least 66 Palestinians were killed in the prior 24 hours across the enclave

The Human Toll and Hostage Stakes

Since October 2023, Israel’s operations in Gaza have led to devastating civilian losses. Gaza’s health authorities report over 67,000 fatalities, mainly among noncombatants. Israel says 48 hostages remain, 20 believed to still be alive, and has committed to the first stage of implementing the Trump proposal should Hamas’s response hold. The pressure rests on both sides: Israel to follow through, and Hamas to maintain unity and discipline in backing the plan.

As these developments unfold, the world watches closely—hoping for a turning point in a conflict that has claimed too many lives and displaced entire populations.