Trump Tells Israel to Stop Bombing Gaza After Hamas Agrees to Release Israeli Hostages
In a surprise move, President Trump has instructed Israel to halt its military operations in the Gaza Strip, citing a commitment from Hamas to release all remaining Israeli hostages. The decision comes after the Palestinian militant group announced its agreement to free the hostages in exchange for the release of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners held by Israel.
According to sources close to the White House, Trump made the request to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday, urging him to "immediately stop the bombing of Gaza" to facilitate the hostage release. The move is seen as a significant development in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, which has resulted in widespread destruction and loss of life in the Palestinian territory.
"We are committed to finding a peaceful resolution to this crisis," Trump said in a statement released by the White House. "The release of these hostages is a crucial step towards achieving that goal."
Hamas, which has been accused of using human shields and launching rocket attacks against Israeli civilians, confirmed its agreement to release the hostages in a statement on Tuesday. The group's leader, Ismail Haniyeh, said that the decision was made "in response to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza" and as part of a broader effort to end the conflict.
"The movement announces its agreement to release all Israeli prisoners, both living and dead, according to the terms outlined by President Trump," Haniyeh said. "We hope that this step will be followed by the immediate release of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners held by Israel."
The 20-point plan proposed by Trump earlier this week aims to bring an end to nearly two years of war in Gaza. The plan includes a ceasefire agreement, the release of hostages and prisoners, and significant economic aid for the Palestinian people.
Netanyahu's office has not commented on Trump's request, but sources close to the Israeli government suggest that they are considering the proposal. "We will carefully consider President Trump's request and work towards finding a peaceful resolution to this crisis," a senior official said.
The decision to halt military operations in Gaza is likely to be met with skepticism by some Israeli officials, who have accused Hamas of using civilians as human shields and launching rocket attacks against Israeli civilians. "Hamas has consistently demonstrated its willingness to use violence against innocent civilians," said MK Yair Lapid, a member of the Israeli parliament. "We cannot trust them to keep their promises."
The humanitarian situation in Gaza remains dire, with thousands of Palestinians displaced and many more struggling to access basic necessities like food and water. The international community has called for an immediate ceasefire and increased aid for the Palestinian people.
As the situation continues to unfold, Trump's decision to instruct Israel to halt its military operations is seen as a significant development in the ongoing conflict. Whether this move will ultimately lead to a peaceful resolution remains to be seen.
Background:
The conflict between Israel and Hamas has resulted in widespread destruction and loss of life in Gaza. The 20-point plan proposed by Trump aims to bring an end to nearly two years of war in the Palestinian territory.
Additional Perspectives:
"This is a welcome development, but we must be cautious not to reward Hamas's violence with concessions," said MK Avigdor Lieberman, a member of the Israeli parliament.
"The release of hostages and prisoners is a crucial step towards achieving peace, but it must be followed by significant economic aid for the Palestinian people," said Hisham Youssef, a Palestinian activist.
Current Status:
The situation in Gaza remains tense, with thousands of Palestinians displaced and many more struggling to access basic necessities. The international community has called for an immediate ceasefire and increased aid for the Palestinian people.
Next Developments:
The next few days will be critical in determining whether Trump's decision will lead to a peaceful resolution. The release of hostages and prisoners is expected to take place soon, but the humanitarian situation in Gaza remains dire.
*Reporting by Npr.*
