Trump Calls for Ceasefire as Israel Bombs Gaza After Proposal

Tension spiked in the Gaza Strip as Israeli airstrikes resumed just hours after President Trump called for an immediate ceasefire and praised Hamas for showing willingness to discuss his proposed peace plan. Local reports confirmed casualties and renewed fears for civilians caught in the crossfire.

Trump intervened following signs that Hamas would engage in further talks and possibly secure the release of hostages. Global leaders echoed his demand for Israel to halt its military campaign, calling for a diplomatic breakthrough.

Why did Trump demand a ceasefire in Gaza?

President Trump’s call for a ceasefire came after Hamas signaled openness to some aspects of his negotiated peace plan. He cited the need to quickly secure hostage releases and prevent more civilian casualties, adding that prolonged conflict would only deepen suffering in the region.

Trump used social media and private diplomatic channels to urgently push his message to Israeli leadership. The White House described his engagement as a last-chance effort to prevent further escalation and move towards a durable settlement.

Did you know?
Trump's 20-point peace plan included a timeline for phased withdrawal by Israeli forces and immediate international monitoring.

How did Israel respond to the peace proposal?

Israel acknowledged Trump’s efforts but maintained it had to act against ongoing militant threats from Gaza. Despite a brief pause in some military actions, Israel’s air force struck several targets it described as key Hamas positions. The strikes came as officials debated the timing and substance of any broader ceasefire agreement.

Netanyahu’s office pointed to security dangers and the unaddressed threat of rocket fire. Israeli sources confirmed defensive operations would only scale back if credible steps were seen from Hamas toward peace and hostage release arrangements.

What was Hamas’s reaction to Trump’s plan?

Hamas responded by partly agreeing to Trump’s proposal, confirming readiness to begin additional rounds of negotiations. The group demanded further clarifications but welcomed the focus on hostilities ending, civilian protections, and progress toward resolving the hostage issue from the October 7, 2023 attack.

Hamas officials communicated that acceptance of core elements was a good-faith signal. However, they requested revisions to certain security and administrative terms without making a blanket endorsement.

How did Netanyahu's government justify airstrikes?

The Israeli government justified renewed bombing by citing intelligence on imminent threats and the need to maintain pressure on militant factions. Officials stated that they had exercised restraint during negotiations with US partners, but a full ceasefire hinged on genuine verification of Hamas's intentions.

Israeli leadership emphasized in public statements that defense remained a top priority until they achieved sustainable assurances. Humanitarian conditions in Gaza continued to deteriorate under the ongoing conflict.

What are the next steps for peace in Gaza?

International mediators are expected to intensify efforts for a broader agreement. Both Israel and Hamas have signaled that further talks are possible, but concrete steps remain limited. The coming days will determine if Trump’s intervention leads to a real change or if hardliners on both sides derail the process.

Looking ahead, the path to peace still appears difficult and uncertain, with prospects hinging on political courage, trust building, and external support from the US and regional powers.