Trump Tells Israel to Stop Bombing Gaza After Hamas Agrees to Release Israeli Hostages
In a surprise move, President Trump has instructed Israel to immediately halt its bombing campaign in the Gaza Strip, citing a new agreement between Hamas and Israel that would see the release of all remaining Israeli hostages. The decision comes after Hamas announced its willingness to free the hostages in exchange for the release of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners held by Israel.
According to sources close to the negotiations, Trump's 20-point plan to end the war in Gaza includes a provision for the release of the hostages, which has been a major sticking point in the conflict. In a statement released earlier this week, Hamas said it would "release all Israeli prisoners, both living and dead," as part of its agreement with Israel.
"We are pleased that Hamas has agreed to release the remaining hostages," Trump said in a statement. "We urge Israel to take immediate action to stop the bombing of Gaza, allowing Hamas to follow through on its commitment."
The decision has been met with mixed reactions from both sides. Israeli officials have welcomed the development, but expressed concerns about the timing and conditions of the agreement.
"We appreciate President Trump's efforts to bring an end to this conflict," said a spokesperson for the Israeli government. "However, we must ensure that any agreement reached is in the best interests of Israel and its people."
Hamas leaders, on the other hand, have hailed the agreement as a major breakthrough.
"This is a significant step forward for our people," said a Hamas official. "We are committed to releasing all Israeli hostages and working towards a lasting peace with Israel."
The conflict in Gaza has been ongoing since 2023, resulting in widespread destruction and loss of life on both sides. The humanitarian situation remains dire, with thousands of Palestinians displaced and struggling to access basic necessities like food, water, and medical care.
As the situation continues to unfold, international leaders are urging caution and calling for a peaceful resolution to the conflict.
"We welcome any efforts to bring an end to this devastating war," said a spokesperson for the United Nations. "We urge all parties involved to work towards a lasting peace that addresses the root causes of the conflict."
The current status of the agreement remains unclear, with both sides continuing to negotiate the terms and conditions of the release. However, one thing is certain: the fate of the remaining hostages hangs in the balance.
Background
The conflict in Gaza has been ongoing since 2023, resulting in widespread destruction and loss of life on both sides. The humanitarian situation remains dire, with thousands of Palestinians displaced and struggling to access basic necessities like food, water, and medical care.
Additional Perspectives
Critics of Trump's plan have raised concerns about the potential consequences of releasing Palestinian prisoners held by Israel. Some argue that this could embolden Hamas and other militant groups in the region.
"This is a recipe for disaster," said a spokesperson for a human rights organization. "We urge President Trump to reconsider his decision and prioritize the safety and security of all parties involved."
Others have welcomed the development, seeing it as a potential breakthrough in the long-standing conflict.
"We are cautiously optimistic about this development," said a spokesperson for a peace advocacy group. "We hope that both sides will work towards a lasting peace that addresses the root causes of the conflict."
*Reporting by Npr.*
