Israel continued heavy bombing in Gaza despite U.S. President Donald Trump’s demand to stop. Since Trump’s call, at least seven more Palestinians died from shelling and attacks. Hamas responded by partially accepting Trump’s 20-point peace plan. They agreed to hand Gaza’s administration to Palestinian technocrats and release Israeli prisoners but did not mention disarming. Hamas expressed readiness to join peace talks immediately through mediators.
President Trump said he believes Hamas wants lasting peace and urged Israel to halt its deadly airstrikes. However, Israel kept bombing Gaza, increasing casualties. Since October 2023, over 66,000 Palestinians have died and more than 169,000 wounded in the conflict. Thousands remain trapped under rubble. Meanwhile, Hamas’ October 7 attacks on Israel killed 1,139 people and took nearly 200 hostage.
Read more: Trump Calls on Israel to Stop Bombing Gaza After Hamas Agrees to Peace Plan
In Gaza, starvation caused by Israel’s siege led to the death of two children in the last 24 hours. This brings the total deaths from hunger-related causes to 459, including 154 children. Humanitarian aid efforts face challenges amid the siege and ongoing violence. Global activists trying to deliver aid have been detained; about 450 flotilla activists remain in Israeli custody, including Greta Thunberg and former Pakistani senator Mushtaq Ahmed.
Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas welcomed the partial peace move. He urged a complete ceasefire, immediate release of hostages, and quick humanitarian aid. Abbas committed to working constructively with Trump and international partners to ensure lasting peace based on international law. He stressed the urgent need to stop violence and start reconstruction.
Read more: Israel halts Gaza push after Hamas response
Israeli forces warned Gaza residents not to return to dangerous war zones. They called northern Gaza a conflict zone and urged civilians to avoid these areas for safety. This warning came as Trump urged Israel to stop bombing following Hamas’ partial acceptance of the peace plan. Families of Israeli captives also demanded immediate peace talks to secure prisoners’ release. The conflict remains tense as diplomacy struggles to bring relief.