Six dead as Israel carries out fresh airstrikes in Gaza despite Trump’s call to halt bombing amid peace talks
PTC Web Desk: Israel carried out fresh airstrikes in Gaza on Saturday, killing six people, hours after US President Donald Trump urged an end to the bombardment and announced that Hamas was open to peace.
The local authorities reported that four persons were killed in a strike on a house in Gaza City, while two others died in an attack in Khan Younis, southern Gaza. The strikes came shortly after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel was preparing to begin the first stage of Trump’s Gaza plan, which involves the release of Israeli hostages following Hamas’ partial acceptance of the proposal. Israeli media later noted that the political leadership instructed the military to reduce offensive operations.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed Trump’s role in the peace efforts, saying, “We welcome President Trump’s leadership as peace efforts in Gaza make decisive progress. Indications of the release of hostages mark a significant step forward.”
Israel’s military chief confirmed that forces are preparing for the implementation of the first phase of Trump’s plan but did not clarify if operations in Gaza would be reduced. Trump emphasised that halting the bombing is crucial for the safe release of hostages and broader Middle East peace.
Netanyahu’s office said Israel would continue to cooperate with Trump’s team to end the conflict in line with Israeli priorities and Trump’s vision. Hostage families have urged the government to start immediate negotiations to secure the release of all captives.
The conflict began after Hamas militants attacked Israel on October 7, 2023, killing around 1,200 persons and taking 251 hostages. Israel reports that 48 hostages remain, including 20 alive. Gaza health authorities estimate that over 66,000 persons, mostly civilians, have been killed due to the Israeli military campaign, with humanitarian conditions deteriorating sharply.
- With inputs from agencies
