The Israeli army has been ordered to halt its offensive in Gaza City, a development that has emerged amid heightened diplomatic efforts led by U.S. President Donald Trump to end the conflict and secure the release of hostages held by Hamas. Israeli officials have reportedly received instructions to cease strikes on the enclave, which is part of Trump’s broader proposal to bring an end to the war through a prisoner swap. The decision to pause offensive operations comes as part of a larger initiative to de-escalate tensions, with both Israel and Hamas indicating they are prepared for negotiations under the proposed terms.
According to Israeli Army Radio and public broadcaster Kan, the order to reduce military operations in Gaza to minimal levels comes in response to Trump’s urging for Israel to suspend strikes against the territory as part of a broader effort to broker peace. Under Trump’s plan, Hamas is required to release all remaining hostages within 72 hours of Israel halting military operations in the area. The agreement also includes conditions such as Israel redeploying its troops to an agreed-upon border line. Both sides have expressed readiness for this arrangement, though the Israeli government has yet to officially comment on Trump’s direct call for a ceasefire. This has raised questions about the effectiveness of diplomatic coordination between the United States and Israel in this high-stakes situation.
Despite the temporary pause in offensive operations, the Israeli military has warned that the area north of Wadi Gaza, which includes the now-decimated Gaza City, remains a dangerous combat zone. This has led to the relocation of residents from the region, as the IDF continues to assert that attempts to return to the area pose a significant security threat. Israeli forces maintain a strict containment of the area, emphasizing that aerial attacks persist but with reduced intensity. According to Al Jazeera, at least 20 people have been killed by Israeli strikes in the enclave since dawn, highlighting the continued human toll of the conflict. Meanwhile, a statement released by the Israeli army noted that the city remains under military supervision, and any attempt to access it could put civilians at risk.
The ongoing negotiations between Israeli officials and U.S. representatives, which are expected to proceed shortly, underscore the complex diplomatic landscape of this conflict. Trump’s peace plan includes the release of 250 Palestinian prisoners currently serving life sentences and 1,700 others detained following the attacks on October 7, 2023. After these exchanges, an apolitical, Hamas-free transitional government in Gaza is meant to be established, with the goal of creating a deradicalized, terror-free zone safe for its neighbors. These proposals have sparked both support and skepticism, as the international community continues to monitor the evolving situation.