Trump Orders Halt to Gaza Bombing After Hamas Accepts Key Elements of His Peace Plan

Trump Orders Israel to Halt Gaza Bombing After Hamas Partially Accepts Peace Plan In a surprise move, US President Donald Trump on Friday ordered Israel to cease its bombing campaign in the Gaza Strip after Hamas announced it had partially accepted his plan to end the nearly two-year conflict. The development comes as a glimmer of hope for the besieged Palestinian population, but experts caution that significant hurdles remain before a lasting peace can be achieved. According to sources close to the negotiations, Hamas said it was willing to release the hostages taken during the October 7, 2023, attack and hand over power to other Palestinians. However, the militant group emphasized that other aspects of the plan require further consultations among Palestinian factions. Senior Hamas officials suggested that major disagreements still need to be ironed out through negotiations. "We are committed to peace, but we will not compromise on our principles," said a senior Hamas official, who wished to remain anonymous. "We need time to discuss and agree on the details of the plan." The Israeli government has yet to respond publicly to Trump's directive, as it is largely shut down for the Jewish Sabbath. However, sources close to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu indicated that his office was reviewing the situation and would likely issue a statement soon. The Gaza Strip has been embroiled in a cycle of violence since October 2023, when Hamas militants launched a surprise attack on Israel, killing hundreds and taking thousands hostage. The conflict has resulted in widespread destruction, displacement, and human suffering, with many Palestinians struggling to access basic necessities like food, water, and medical care. The international community has been watching the situation closely, with many calling for an end to the violence and a return to negotiations. Trump's plan, which was unveiled earlier this year, aims to establish a framework for peace between Israel and Palestine based on mutual recognition and respect. "This is a positive development, but we must be cautious not to get ahead of ourselves," said Dr. Ahmed Al-Tamimi, a Palestinian analyst based in Ramallah. "The road to peace will be long and difficult, but it's essential that all parties remain committed to finding a solution." As the situation continues to unfold, humanitarian organizations are urging caution and calling for increased aid to support those affected by the conflict. "We welcome any efforts towards peace, but we must not forget the human cost of this conflict," said a spokesperson for the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation. "We need sustained international support to address the pressing needs of the Palestinian people." The next few days will be crucial in determining whether Trump's plan can gain traction and lead to a lasting resolution. As the situation remains fluid, one thing is clear: the path to peace will require patience, compromise, and a commitment to finding common ground. Background The Gaza Strip has been under Israeli blockade since 2007, with many Palestinians struggling to access basic necessities like food, water, and medical care. The October 2023 attack marked a significant escalation in violence, with hundreds killed and thousands taken hostage. Additional Perspectives "This is a critical moment for the Palestinian people," said Dr. Mustafa Barghouti, a Palestinian politician based in Ramallah. "We must seize this opportunity to find a lasting solution to our conflict." "The international community has a responsibility to support peace efforts and provide humanitarian aid to those affected by the conflict," said a spokesperson for the European Union. Current Status The situation remains fluid, with Hamas and Israel engaged in ongoing negotiations. The next few days will be crucial in determining whether Trump's plan can gain traction and lead to a lasting resolution. Next Developments A meeting between Hamas leaders and Israeli officials is expected to take place soon to discuss the details of the plan. The international community is closely watching the situation, with many calling for increased aid and support for those affected by the conflict. *Reporting by Fortune.*