In a dramatic development aimed at ending the prolonged Gaza war, U.S. President Donald Trump on Friday publicly called on Israel to “immediately stop bombing Gaza” after Hamas signaled its acceptance of key elements of a U.S.-brokered peace plan. The move marks a potential turning point in a conflict that has lasted two years, killed tens of thousands, and left Israel diplomatically isolated.
The Trump administration recently unveiled a 20-point plan to end hostilities, secure the release of hostages, and lay the groundwork for lasting peace in the Middle East. Hamas submitted its formal response on Friday, just days before a Sunday deadline set by Trump, who warned of “grave consequences” if the group refused the deal.
“Israel must immediately stop the bombing of Gaza, so that we can get the hostages out safely and quickly,” Trump wrote on Truth Social, declaring Hamas had shown it was “ready for a lasting PEACE.”
Israel Signals Readiness, but Bombing Continues
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office said Israel was preparing for “immediate implementation” of the first stage of Trump’s plan following Hamas’ response. The stage involves the release of Israeli hostages in exchange for a phased cessation of hostilities and humanitarian measures.
However, residents of Gaza reported continued heavy bombardment shortly after Trump’s announcement. Tanks shelled Talateeni Street in central Gaza City, while Israeli aircraft struck multiple targets in the Remal neighborhood. Additional strikes were reported in Khan Younis, though no casualties were immediately confirmed.
Israel has not officially responded to Trump’s demand for an immediate bombing halt. But opposition leader Yair Lapid urged Netanyahu to join negotiations “led by the president to finalize the deal.”
Hamas Welcomes Mediation, Seeks More Talks
In its response, Hamas expressed “appreciation” for international efforts, including Trump’s, and approved the release of all Israeli prisoners, both living and deceased, under the exchange formula outlined in the U.S. plan. It also declared its readiness to enter mediated negotiations to iron out remaining details.
Hamas proposed transferring the administration of Gaza to an independent Palestinian technocratic body, supported by Arab and Islamic nations. However, it remained vague on Trump’s proposal to exclude Hamas from political power in Gaza’s future governance.
Netanyahu Under Growing Domestic Pressure
Netanyahu faces mounting internal challenges. Families of hostages held in Gaza are demanding immediate negotiations, while war fatigue among the Israeli public grows. On the other hand, hardline members of his far-right coalition continue to push for unrelenting military action.
Israel’s government has aligned itself broadly with Trump’s vision but must now navigate the political fault lines between diplomacy and continued war.
A Critical 48-Hour Window
Trump, who has cast himself as the indispensable dealmaker for Middle East peace, warned earlier that “all HELL” would break loose if Hamas rejected the U.S. plan by Sunday evening. With Hamas showing signs of engagement and Israel under direct pressure from Washington, the next 48 hours could define the trajectory of the Gaza conflict — toward either a negotiated breakthrough or a renewed escalation.