Israel has scaled back some of its military operations in Gaza after U.S. President Donald Trump ordered an immediate halt to airstrikes, saying Hamas must be allowed to release the remaining Israeli hostages.
Hamas announced it would hand over all captives, both living and dead, in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners held in Israeli jails, as outlined in Trump’s 20-point ceasefire plan. But the group warned that recovering the remains of some hostages could take longer than the 72 hours set out in the proposal.
Despite Trump’s directive, residents of Gaza reported continued shelling and at least three airstrikes on Saturday morning. Local hospitals also confirmed new civilian casualties, including children.
Trump, posting on Truth Social, insisted Hamas’s response showed readiness for “lasting peace.” He said Israel must stop its bombing so hostages could be freed safely. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office later said the country was preparing for “immediate implementation” of the first stage of Trump’s plan, the release of all hostages.
The US blueprint, unveiled earlier this week, demands a ceasefire, release of the 48 hostages still held in Gaza, a phased withdrawal of Israeli forces, and eventual disarmament of Hamas. It also promises increased humanitarian aid and reconstruction for Gaza, where famine and mass displacement persist.
