Former US President Donald Trump announced on Saturday that Israel has agreed to an “initial withdrawal line” in Gaza, suggesting a breakthrough in peace negotiations. Writing on his Truth Social platform, Trump stated that once Hamas confirms the agreement, a ceasefire will become effective “IMMEDIATELY,” and a prisoner exchange will commence. He framed this development as a significant step toward ending a “3,000 YEAR CATASTROPHE.”
Tel Aviv Rally for Hostage Release
Trump shared a photograph on Truth Social of a massive rally in Tel Aviv’s Hostages Square, where tens of thousands gathered to demand the release of captives held by Hamas since the October 7 attacks. A huge banner at the rally read, “It’s now or never.” Former hostages reportedly addressed the crowd, expressing hope regarding the potential peace plan, according to the Times of Israel.
Call for Immediate Bombing Halt
On Friday, Trump had urged Israel to “immediately stop the bombing of Gaza,” following Hamas’s reported acceptance of parts of the peace proposal, including a commitment to release all remaining hostages. He argued that the ongoing bombardment made the safe and quick release of hostages “far too dangerous.”
Strikes Continue Despite Plea
Despite Trump’s call for an end to military action late on Friday, Israeli strikes on Gaza continued on Saturday, resulting in dozens of casualties. News agency Reuters reported that at least 36 people were killed, including 18 in an Israeli strike on a house in the Tuffah neighbourhood in Gaza City.
Israel’s military, acknowledging the civilian harm, stated that it had targeted a Hamas militant who posed a threat to its troops in the area. Israel’s statement expressed regret for any harm to “uninvolved civilians” and affirmed its efforts to “mitigate harm… as much as possible.”